The Cuban Revolution: A Shift In American Support

Escobar, Rafael (2004) The Cuban Revolution: A Shift In American Support . Master's Thesis, Department of Arts in History, Central Connecticut State University.

Abstract

This thesis represents an overview of the Foreign Relations policy of the United States toward Cuba, and its leadership, in the time period leading up to the Cuban Revolution and culminating with the Bay of Pigs invasion. The thesis also examines the relationship between the United States and two Cuban leaders, Fulgencio Batista and Fidel Castro. Moreover, the thesis underlines the actions taken by the Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy Presidencies. Through extensive research, that includes visits to the Yale and John F. Kennedy library, my thesis examines the shifting support of the United States toward Cuba before and after the Cuban Revolution. The Cuban Revolution symbolized a change in America’s relationship with Cuba. Throughout the first half of the twentieth century the United States played a major role in choosing Cuban leaders, as well as, influencing the Cuban economy. The Platt Amendment secured America’s right to interfere in Cuban politics.1 Even after the abolition of the Platt Amendment, the United States continued to heavily influence Cuban politics. American owned companies, such as the United Fruit Company, were extremely lucrative and the security of American owned companies was a top priority for the United States. The success of the Cuban Revolution and the rise to power of Fidel Castro immediately challenged U.S. interests in Cuba. UUnder the leadership of Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy the United States established itself as the number one foreign enemy of the revolution, and especially, Fidel Castro. Beginning with the Eisenhower administration, the United States began plotting the overthrow of Castro. In subsequent years the Eisenhower administration developed plans for an invasion of Cuba.2 Those plans were eventually carried out by his successor, John F. Kennedy. The Bay of Pigs invasion took place on April 17, 1961, and turn into one of the United States biggest foreign policy blunders. The Cuban Revolution had a great impact on all of the Americas. Under Castro, Cuba presented a threat to the United States. The development of Castro’s revolution intensified the relationship between Cuba and the United States. This thesis will examine the intensity that developed and America’s reaction to the Revolution.