U.S.–Cuba Relations

This book examines the history of United States foreign policy toward Cuba, focusing on critical junctures and recent strategic shifts. Restoring diplomatic relations with Cuba, which were severed officially in January 1961, was a huge shift in U.S. foreign policy. Relations between Cuba and the United States were tumultuous throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and almost escalated into full blown nuclear war in October 1962 during the Cuban missile crisis. The restoration of diplomatic relations marks a fundamental departure as the two countries chart a new course into the twenty-first century. This book traces over seven hundred years of history, setting the context to base an argument in favor of rapprochement. It illustrates the importance of the Cuba deal to break with the past and delegitimize anti-Americanism in the world.

Rosen (Florida State) and Kassab (Northern Michigan) present a well-articulated case for redefining US-Cuban relations and building on Obama’s shift in policy. This book succinctly details Cuba’s history, including US-Cuba relations. The authors focus on Obama’s efforts to restore diplomatic ties with Raúl Castro before reviewing the obstacles confronting this shift: vested interest groups, public opinion, and ideological views held by politicians. This book raises critical questions about the practicality and rationale for maintaining a failed foreign policy. At the time of this publication, the presidential elections were still ongoing. The Trump administration has not been clear regarding its policy toward Cuba, aside from stipulating that "we should have made a better deal." In January 2017, a Cuban trade delegation arrived in the US to visit four states and six ports. If Obama’s efforts are reversed, Rosen and Kassab contend that nothing will change in Cuba, but if the US embraces this shift, we have far more to gain than lose, particularly with our Latin American neighbors. This book is strongly recommended to all readers interested in learning from the past to develop a stronger US-Cuba policy in the 21st century. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty., It is rare to find books containing such concise analyses and lucid prose as this one. The authors have done a remarkable job at providing historical accuracy and strategic insight into U.S.‐Cuba relations. With masterful clarity, attention to details, and a hopeful tone, this book is truly a rare gem for scholars and anyone who aims to grasp the complex history and evolving relationship between the United States and Cuba.

Jonathan D. Rosen is a research scientist at Florida International University’s Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy.Hanna S. Kassab is a visiting professor at Northern Michigan University.