Key Points on Space Program and Cuban Crisis

Impact of Space Program in New Frontier

• Competition with the Soviet Union was intense, especially in space exploration.
• The first satellite in space was launched by Russia, called Sputnik.
• The US aimed to land on and stay on the moon to beat Russia in technological advancements.
• This race fostered American nationalism and influenced various sectors (e.g., sports, economy).

Cuban Crisis and American Involvement

• Fidel Castro rose to power in Cuba in 1959, opposing American influence.
• American involvement originated from historical ties, including the Spanish-American War.
• Castro's popularity increased due to anti-American sentiment and he aligned Cuba with the Soviet Union.

Bay of Pigs Invasion

• Planned under Eisenhower, aimed to train Cuban exiles to overthrow Castro.
• Under Kennedy, the mission was executed but ultimately failed.
• The failure heightened Castro's popularity and strengthened his ties with the Soviet Union.
• The US discovered Soviet nuclear launch sites in Cuba, posing a significant threat (90 miles from Florida).
• Kennedy faced the challenge of protecting American citizens from this nuclear threat.