Fidel Castro Comes into Power
Prior to the 1959 Cuban Revolution the United States had experienced considerable influence in Cuba's economic and political affairs. However, this revolution ousted Fulgencio Batista, Cuba's dictator. It also brought to power in Cuba a government headed by revolutionary leader Fidel Castro. Now the position of influence of the United States Government in Cuba was drastically changed. Castro and his government refused to be influenced by the United States.
Castro, in a supposed attempt to instill policies that would improve the conditions of Cuba's poor and working-class, proceeded to confiscate property that belonged to wealthy Cubans as well as foreigners living within his country. This situation caused considerable concern in the United States as many of these confiscated properties belonged to businesses owned by companies in America.
A Fear of Communism
The United States now feared that Castro would establish a Communist regime in Cuba. The United States now desired to impress upon Castro that such an action would be objectionable. To stress their point, the United States applied economic pressure by implementing an embargo in 1960. It was designed to halt trade between the United States and Cuba.
Nikita Khrushchev Intervenes
Castro, however, had been underestimated by the United States. He refused to give in to that country's pressure. However, the United States' concern that Castro would establish a Communist regime was proven correct when Castro, early in 1960, proceeded to establish close relations with the USSR and its Communist government. This was a bold move on Castor's part as, at the time, the United States and the USSR were deeply engaged in the Cold War. This ongoing conflict was an "economic, military, and diplomatic struggle between Communist and capitalist nations." Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev took the position that the defense of Cuba was "critical to the international standing of the USSR and of communist ideology."
Under these circumstances, the United States government now felt that it was their duty to destroy Castro's form of government.
Before the Bay of Pigs: Beware of Castro and Khrushchev, continues with: The Bay of Pigs: United States Prepares For a Takeover.
