Eisenhower Approves Anti-Cuban Covert Operation

March 17th, 1960

March 17th, 1960

Eisenhower Approves Anti-Cuban Covert Operation
How Long Ago?

64 years, 11 months, 26 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Fidel Castro
  • Dwight D. Eisenhower
Links & References
Tags

Eisenhower Approves Anti-Cuban Covert Operation

President Dwight D. Eisenhower approved a National Security Council directive that authorized a covert action program aimed at Cuba. This decision was aimed at undermining the communist government of Fidel Castro, who had taken power in Cuba. The covert actions included training Cuban exiles and planned military operations designed to destabilize Castro's regime. This directive set the stage for events that would escalate into a significant military operation in the form of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, marking a crucial point in U.S.-Cuban relations during the Cold War.

Eisenhower sought to undermine Castro's regime.

The CIA was tasked with training Cuban exiles.

The directive led to the Bay of Pigs Invasion.

This event marked a critical Cold War confrontation.

What Happened?

The National Security Council directive signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in March 1960 represented a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy toward Cuba following the Cuban Revolution. Following Fidel Castro's rise to power and his moves toward establishing a socialist state, American officials viewed this as a threat during the Cold War. Eisenhower, who had grown increasingly concerned about the spread of communism, directed the CIA to develop a plan for covert operations that would support anti-Castro forces and undermine the Cuban government. The initial focus was on training groups of Cuban exiles, as the U.S. aimed to create a force capable of leading an insurrection against Castro.

In the context of the Cold War, American policymakers believed that the fall of Castro could have significant implications for the stability of the region and the influence of the Soviet Union in Latin America. As part of this directive, the CIA began to devise various strategies, including sabotage of Cuban facilities and propaganda campaigns. Preparations for military action were set in motion, with comprehensive plans being developed for a potential invasion of Cuba, which ultimately culminated in the Bay of Pigs Invasion in April 1961. This operation aimed to leverage the dissatisfaction of many Cubans with Castro’s regime to facilitate a successful uprising.

The signing of the directive underscored the U.S. commitment to countering perceived communist threats in its hemisphere and demonstrated the willingness of the Eisenhower administration to engage in covert action. The decision set a varying tone for future U.S. engagement in Latin America, leading to increased military and political intervention in the region, as well as the enduring legacy of mistrust between the U.S. and Cuba.

Why Does it Matter?

The directive paved the way for the Bay of Pigs Invasion, which ultimately failed and led to significant consequences for U.S.-Cuba relations. It illustrated the lengths to which the U.S. was willing to go in its strategy to counteract communism during the Cold War. The fiasco not only embarrassed the Kennedy administration but also strengthened Castro's position in Cuba and strained U.S. relations with Latin America.

Discover More Historic Events from March 17th

Politics & Government

Establishment of Democratic Federation in Northern Syria

March 17th, 2016 8 years ago

At a conference in Rmelan, the Movement for a Democratic Society announced the establishment of the Democratic Federation of Northern Syria. This declaration aimed to create a self-governed region in Northern Syria, promoting democratic governance, gender equality, and ethnic pluralism, as a response to the conflicts in the region and to assert autonomy against external governance. The federation is characterized by its unique model of local governance that seeks to empower communities and foster cooperation among different ethnic and religious groups, underscoring a commitment to democracy and social justice.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Ethnic Violence Erupts in Kosovo Region

March 17th, 2004 20 years ago

In March 2004, significant unrest occurred in Kosovo leading to the deaths of over 22 individuals and wounding around 200. The violence was primarily between ethnic Albanian and Serb communities. A notable incident involved the destruction of 35 Serbian Orthodox shrines in Kosovo and two mosques in Serbia as tensions escalated. This upheaval was fueled by underlying ethnic tensions and grievances stemming from the Kosovo War and the ongoing political situation in the region, impacting both communities profoundly.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Robin Cook Resigns Over Iraq War Plans

March 17th, 2003 21 years ago

Robin Cook, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council, resigned from the British Cabinet in opposition to the government’s approach towards the impending invasion of Iraq, which was planned under the leadership of Prime Minister Tony Blair. Cook expressed concerns about the legality and morality of military action without a United Nations mandate, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions. His resignation was a significant political statement, reflecting deep divisions within the government regarding the Iraq conflict and resonating with public sentiment against the war.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Mass Death in Ugandan Cult Fire

March 17th, 2000 24 years ago

A fire engulfed the compound of the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God in Uganda, killing around 530 members. This occurred in the town of Kanungu, where cult leaders were suspected of coercing members into a mass suicide or mass murder. Meanwhile, 248 more bodies were discovered later, further alarming authorities. The incident raised questions about the influence of religious sects in Uganda and the safety of their followers.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Car Bomb Attack on Israeli Embassy in Argentina

March 17th, 1992 32 years ago

A devastating car bomb exploded outside the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, claiming the lives of 29 individuals and injuring 242 others. The attack occurred during daylight hours, targeting the embassy which was a significant diplomatic site. Security concerns had escalated in the years prior, fueled by regional tensions and the activities of militant groups. Investigators suspected involvement of foreign terrorist organizations, raising alarms about international terrorism on Argentine soil.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Referendum Passes to End Apartheid

March 17th, 1992 32 years ago

A referendum resulted in 68.7% voting to end apartheid in South Africa. The 3.2 million voters overwhelmingly supported a new democratic constitution, paving the way for a collaborative government that transcended racial divides. This was a significant step toward dismantling the racially discriminatory system that had structured South African society for decades, marking a hopeful turning point for millions.

Continue Reading