The Long-lasting U.S. Sanctions Against Cuba: A Complex History and Its Underlying Reasons

For over six decades, the United States has maintained sanctions and an embargo against Cuba, leading many to question the underlying reasons for such a prolonged and harsh policy. This article delves into the historical causes and the complex interplay of political, economic, and ideological factors that have shaped this relationship.

Historical Context: The Cuban Missile Crisis

The deep-seated tension between the United States and Cuba dates back to a pivotal moment in history: the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. The Soviet Union attempted to place nuclear missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles off the coast of Florida. This action was seen by the United States as a direct threat to its national security. In response, the U.S. Navy intercepted the ships carrying the missiles and demanded their return to the USSR. This event marked a new era in U.S.-Cuba relations, characterized by mutual distrust and hostility.

U.S. Imperialism and Imperial Insecurity

The U.S. government’s approach to international relations has often been characterized by a blend of imperialist ambitions and a sense of insecurity. The U.S. has a long history of intervening in other nations, often under the guise of promoting democracy and human rights. However, its actions frequently come across as more about self-preservation and dominance. This sentiment can be seen in the U.S. imposition of sanctions on Cuba, where the U.S. sought to undermine a regime that it viewed as a potential threat to its regional and global hegemony.

Sanctions and the Global Stage

The U.S. has historically imposed sanctions on all communist regimes around the world. This is often seen in the context of the Cold War era, where the U.S. sought to contain the spread of communism. The Manoeuvre Doctrine, which involves a policy of preventing external influence in the Western Hemisphere, has been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. In this context, Cuba, as a close ally of the Soviet Union, posed a significant challenge to U.S. dominance in the region.

The Impact of Sanctions on Cuba

The U.S. embargo against Cuba has had profound and multifaceted effects. While it is often criticized for exacerbating poverty and hardship in Cuba, it is important to note that the Castro regime has also been responsible for human rights abuses and political oppression. In 1959, the Castro government came to power and immediately confiscated American businesses in Cuba. This immediately led to the imposition of sanctions by the U.S.

The embargo is often portrayed as a tool for human rights, but its effectiveness has been questioned. Many argue that the sanctions have more often served to isolate Cuba from the global economy and to maintain the status quo inside the country. While the U.S. has justified the sanctions in the name of promoting human rights and democracy, critics point out that the Cuban people under the Castro regime have faced severe limitations on basic freedoms and access to information.

The Legacy of the Cuban Missile Crisis

The Cuban Missile Crisis remains a defining moment in U.S. history. Cuba's stand against the U.S. during this period, and its subsequent military presence in Africa, such as support for southern African liberation movements, has always been a point of national humiliation for the U.S. The pride and the wounded ego of the U.S. have played a significant role in maintaining the sanctions as a means of reasserting U.S. dominance.

Canada-based author Michael Bradley further explores the roots of Western aggression and racism in his book The Iceman Inheritance. Through this lens, many believe that the deep-seated insecurities and mental issues within Western civilization have fueled ongoing conflicts and a tendency to exert dominance over other nations.

Conclusion

The U.S. sanctions against Cuba represent a complex interplay of historical, economic, and ideological factors. While the U.S. has had its share of military interventions and human rights concerns, the ongoing sanctions against Cuba may be more about preserving U.S. hegemony and maintaining its global position. Understanding the underlying reasons for this policy is crucial for comprehending the long-standing tensions in U.S.-Cuba relations and the potential for future reconciliation and cooperation.

Keywords: US sanctions, embargo on Cuba, historical conflicts, communist regime, human rights issues