* The Platt Amendment (1901-1934): This amendment to the Cuban constitution gave the United States the right to intervene in Cuban affairs to maintain order and protect American interests.
* The Monroe Doctrine (1823): This policy declared that the Western Hemisphere was off-limits to European colonization and influence, effectively giving the United States a sphere of influence over the region, including Cuba.
* Bay of Pigs Invasion (1961): The United States attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro's government by training and arming Cuban exiles for an invasion, which ultimately failed.
* Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): The Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, leading to a tense standoff between the superpowers and nearly triggering a nuclear war. The crisis was resolved with the removal of Soviet missiles from Cuba in exchange for US concessions.
Economic Influence:
* Sugar Industry: The United States has been the main importer of Cuban sugar since the late 19th century, making it one of the island's most important industries.
* Trade Embargo: Since 1962, the United States has maintained a trade embargo on Cuba, severely limiting economic interactions between the two countries.
* Tourism: After a brief reopening in the 2010s, the United States re-imposed restrictions on travel and tourism to Cuba under the Trump administration.
Cultural Influence:
* Media and Information: American movies, music, and other cultural products have been widely consumed in Cuba despite political tensions.
* Exile Community: There is a large Cuban exile community in the United States, particularly in Florida, which influences US-Cuba relations and domestic politics.
* Educational Opportunities: Many Cubans pursue higher education in the United States, contributing to cultural交流和理解.
