The invasion began on April 17, 1961, when the CIA-backed troops landed at the Bay of Pigs, located on the southern coast of Cuba. However, the invasion force faced strong resistance from the Cuban military and militia. The Cuban government was able to mobilize and organize its forces quickly and effectively, and the invaders were defeated within 72 hours. The invasion ended with the capture or death of most of the invading force.
The Bay of Pigs Invasion was a significant event for several reasons. First, it was the first major military operation undertaken by the United States after the end of World War II. Second, the failure of the invasion was a major embarrassment for the United States and its intelligence agencies, particularly the CIA. It led to a number of investigations into the CIA and the decision-making process behind the invasion. Third, the failed invasion strengthened Fidel Castro's hold on power in Cuba and solidified the Cuban Revolution. Finally, the invasion contributed to the deterioration of relations between Cuba and the United States and played a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962.