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To what extent were ideological differences between Cuba and America the main reason for the Cuban Crisis of 1962? Context: In the years before 1959, Cuba was ruled by a military dictatorship led by General Batista - Scottish Highers History - Question 56 - 2018
Question 56
To what extent were ideological differences between Cuba and America the main reason for the Cuban Crisis of 1962? Context: In the years before 1959, Cuba was ruled... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent were ideological differences between Cuba and America the main reason for the Cuban Crisis of 1962? Context: In the years before 1959, Cuba was ruled by a military dictatorship led by General Batista - Scottish Highers History - Question 56 - 2018
Step 1
Context:
Answer
In the years leading up to the Cuban Crisis, Cuba was under a military dictatorship led by General Batista, characterized by corruption and inefficiency. Following the successful revolution by Fidel Castro in 1959, which overthrew Batista, Cuba aligned itself with the Communist sphere, intensifying ideological conflicts with America.
Step 2
Ideological differences:
Answer
America's apprehension towards communism’s geographical proximity, particularly just south of Florida, played a critical role. The ideological differences were exacerbated by the belief that Cuba could become a platform for further Communist influence in Latin America, contrasting sharply with American values and ethics linked to the Monroe Doctrine.
Step 3
Other factors - Kennedy's domestic context:
Answer
The loss of US interests and investments in Cuba during the revolution heightened tensions. Cuban exiles in Florida strongly urged American intervention to counter Castro, pushing the CIA towards destabilizing efforts such as the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961, which further polarized relations between the nations.
Step 4
Castro's view of Kennedy:
Answer
Post-revolution, Castro gained power and support, recognizing the threat posed by the US. His view of Kennedy evolved as he assessed America's intent toward Cuba. With the backdrop of the Cold War, Castro positioned himself against perceived American imperialism.
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Khrushchev’s view of Kennedy:
Answer
Khrushchev likened Kennedy to a weak president, especially after the Bay of Pigs failure. He interpreted Kennedy's actions as opportunities for Soviet assertiveness, believing that Kennedy's inexperience could be exploited in negotiations, thus contributing to tensions.
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