The Bay of Pigs Flashcards
Who ruled Cuba before Castro ?
Batista, an army officer who seized power with help from the USA
When was the Cuban revolution ?
January 1959
How far away is Cuba from America ?
145 km
What reforms were introduced after Castro overthrew Batista ?
He worked to end corruption in government and improve the conditions of agricultural and industrial workers
Why did the USA become increasingly concerned by Castro’s reforms ?
Castro began appointing communists to his government and signed a trade agreement with the USSR were Cuban sugar would be swapped for machinery and weaponry. Castro also nationalised American industries in Cuba
How did the USA react to Castro’s reforms ?
In January 1960 USA stoped buying Cuban sugar, and banned all trade with Cuba. By 1961 they stopped all diplomatic relations with Cuba
What effect did USA’s response to Castro’s reforms have ?
They pushed Castro closer to the USSR, which lead to the Bay of Pigs invasion
What was the Bay of Pigs invasion ?
It was led by Cuban exiles, living in Florida. The plan was supported by JFK, the exiles hoped to establish a base for guerrilla activities against Cuba and hope the Cuban people would support them.
Why was it such a disaster ?
The force of 1,400 exiles were facing over 20,000 Cuban troops, the people didn’t rise up and support the exiles. Both Castro and Khrushchev knew the CIA had planned this-JFK humiliated
What were the consequences of this invasion ?
It convinced Castro that he needed more Soviet support. In September 1961 Khrushchev publicly announced he would supply arms to Cuba. By 1962 Castro had a well equipped army. Castro declared himself communist
What were the effects of the invasion on USA and USSR relations ?
Kennedy was humiliated. The USA looked hypocritical. The USSR had the upper hand, they pointed out Cuba wanted a pro-communist regime showing communism popularity. Stronger relations were established between USSR and Cuba which threatened Kennedy
