List and describe at least 3 events that contributed to the beginning of the Civil War (1861-1865).

Briefly explain why these events could be considered causes of the Civil War.

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1959—Cuban Revolution brings Communists to power

Fidel Castro is new ruler of Cuba

Threat to US power in Latin America—what if communism spread there?

1961—President John F. Kennedy plans for overthrow of Castro

Bay of Pigs Invasion

US trained Cuban exiles to invade and overthrow Castro

CONTAINMENT IN LATIN AMERICA

Was a total failure—US did not help exiles & would not admit being involved

Kennedy was seen as weak by Soviet Union

LATIN AMERICA

The Soviet Union tried to take advantage of JFK’s inexperience

October 1962—Soviets put nuclear missiles on Cuba

When US spy planes find this out, Kennedy demands the Soviets take the missiles

CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS

World is on brink of nuclear war for 13 days

The US was afraid the missiles would be used for a surprise attack

CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS

The US established a blockade around Cuba

If Soviet ships pass blockade, it may lead to nuclear war

Khrushchev (Soviet leader) eventually backs down

Promises to remove missiles from Cuba

Kennedy calls for limits on nuclear testing

Eventually leads to Nixon’s policy of detente

CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS

1. Explain how the US tried to contain communism in Latin America during the 1960s.

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