Cuba After Castro: Implications of Change
Abstract
Located just 90 miles from its southern border, Cuba has long been of key security and humanitarian interest to the United States. Since Fidel Castro assumed power in Cuba in 1959, U.S.-Cuban relations have been virtually nonexistent. Recent historical events have occurred that could potentially lead to political and socioeconomic reform in Cuba. The increase in the Cuban population in the United States has lead to an increased Cuban representation in the U.S. Congress. In addition, the biological aging of Fidel Castro, as well as the downward spiral of the Cuban economy and well-being of Cuban citizens point to what may be a ripening chance for democracy in Cuba. This Strategy Research Project will explore past and current U.S. policy towards Cuba, and examine potential alternatives to that policy should an unforeseen change occur in Cuban leadership. This paper will address how different sectors of the U.S. Government and its citizens view Cuba; how Castro views the United States; Castro's plans for Cuban succession; some of the challenges that a post-Castro Cuba might face should it embrace democracy; and, lastly, since Cuba is not an economic or military threat to the United States, the question of why the United States should consider and embrace a political agenda regarding potential outcomes in Cuba when Fidel Castro departs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA431782
Entities
People
- Johnny R. Bullington
Organizations
- United States Army War College