The United States has long held an interest in Cuba. Firstm, as an annexed country, then as a Republic they could intercede with at any time, to an enemy that instilled fear because of its proximity to the United States, the power of their military, and their access to missiles. “Cold War Cuba,” is an intriguing compilation focusing on the tense relations between Cuba and the United States during the 1960s. It documents the revolution in Cuba on January 1, 1959 with the exile of Batista and Castro’s consequent take over and unrelenting regime. It also shows an address by President Kennedy, on October 22, 1962 in regards to the missile build up of Soviet nukes in Cuba, which the United States saw as a direct contradiction to Russian statements, which claimed they would never build up arms on foreign territory. Includes a bonus travelogue of Cuba which documents a time before the United States began it’s anti-communist propaganda mission of the country.
Included Films:
Cuba : The Battle of America
Cuba : The Battle of America
Produced: 1960
Length: 51 Minutes
The United States has long held an interest in Cuba. First as an annexed country, then as a Republic they could intercede with at any time, to an enemy that instilled fear because of its proximity to the United States, the power of their military, and their access to missiles. But as “Cuba: The Battle of America,” proclaims it is a country that few Americans truly understand, especially in regards to its political upheaval and revolts. The situation during the 1960s is discussed showing a pre-revolutionary Cuba from the average citizen, discussing the roots of poverty and the turmoil that seethes around the country. A decidedly American slant creates an intriguing exploration of societal beliefs of the 60s during a time of missile crises, revolts, and unrest that affected the United States intimately.
Cuba: The Land and the People
Cuba: The Land and the People
Produced: 1950
Length: 11 Minutes
Cuba is a tropical island that lies ninety miles south of the United States and is bordered by Mexico to the west. It is a country with a diverse heritage, ranging from Spanish, European and African, and has a plethora of culture and beautiful landscapes. “Cuba: the Land and the People,” is an in depth look at the geography of Cuba, what makes the land so diverse and beautiful, the history and architecture of various cities, such as Santiago and Havana, and the people that live on the island. It focuses on the importance of Cuba to the United States, mentioning how they have long been allies and how the economies are closely tied together. Part travelogue, part history and economics lesson, Cubas mysteries are uncovered.
CUBA: WORLD VERDICT
CUBA: WORLD VERDICT
Produced: 1963
Length: 27 Minutes
“Cuba: World Verdict,” focuses on the revolution in Cuba on January 1, 1959 with the exile of Batista, a tyrant in the eyes of many Cubans. It discusses the days leading up to the revolution, which many saw as the beginning of democracy in Cuba, and the celebrations that took place. Then it switches to the violence of Castro’s actions after he won power, and the world’s response to his increasing violence and communist regime, creating juxtaposition to the hope people first had when his fighters took over the government. Interviews with people who were there, including civilians, reporters, and government officials adds gravity to the situation and crisis that surrounded Cuba in the 1950s and 60s.
Kennedy Address, Cuba
Kennedy Address, Cuba
Produced: 1960s
Length: 19 Minutes
President Kennedy addressed the nation on October 22, 1962 in regards to the missile build up of Soviet nukes in Cuba. The United States viewed this as a direct contradiction to the Russian statement they would never build up arms on foreign territory. Kennedy discusses the implications of the bases on Cuba and lays out an honest account of Russian activity and the US response. “Kennedy Address, Cuba,” documents the closest moment to nuclear strikes during the Cold War and serves as a stark reminder of the intricacies of international politics.
