Who is the author of 'Conflicting Missions'?

The author of 'Conflicting Missions' is Piero Gleijeses.

What are the main themes in 'Conflicting Missions'?

The main themes in 'Conflicting Missions' include History, Global Conflict, Political History, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'Conflicting Missions'?

'Conflicting Missions' is categorized as History, Politics and Current Affairs.

What are the main themes explored in 'Conflicting Missions'?

'Conflicting Missions' by Piero Gleijeses explores several key themes, including: Cold War Politics: The book examines the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War, particularly how the United States and the Soviet Union interacted in the context of Latin America, especially Cuba. Imperialism and Nationalism: Gleijeses delves into the struggle of nations in Latin America against imperialist forces, highlighting the desire for self-determination and national sovereignty. Revolution and Counter-Revolution: The dynamics between revolutionary movements and counter-revolutionary forces are central to the narrative, showcasing the complexities and conflicts inherent in these struggles. International Solidarity: The theme of solidarity among nations and revolutionary movements is a significant focus, emphasizing how Cuba's role in supporting other countries' liberation movements plays out in the broader international context. Complex Historical Narratives: Gleijeses also explores the complexity of historical narratives, challenging simplistic interpretations of events and highlighting the multifaceted nature of political movements. Through these themes, 'Conflicting Missions' provides a nuanced examination of how international relations, ideology, and local contexts intersected during a critical period in history.

How does Piero Gleijeses illustrate the relationship between Cuba and Africa in the book?

In 'Conflicting Missions,' Piero Gleijeses illustrates the relationship between Cuba and Africa through a detailed exploration of Cuba's military and diplomatic engagement in African conflicts, particularly in Angola and Ethiopia during the Cold War. He emphasizes the ideological commitment of the Cuban government to support liberation movements against colonial and imperial forces, portraying Cuba as a key player in the struggle for African independence. Gleijeses uses archival evidence, interviews, and a wide range of sources to show how Cuba's involvement was motivated by both revolutionary ideals and geopolitical interests. He highlights the solidarity that emerged between Cuban and African leaders, showcasing personal relationships and mutual support, while also addressing the complexities and contradictions inherent in their partnership.

What key historical events does the author discuss in 'Conflicting Missions'?

In 'Conflicting Missions', Piero Gleijeses discusses key historical events related to U.S. and Cuban involvement in Angola during the 1970s and 1980s. The book examines the Angolan Civil War, the role of the Cuban military in supporting the MPLA (Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola), and the U.S. efforts to support UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola) and its leader Jonas Savimbi. Additionally, it addresses the Cold War dynamics, including the geopolitical struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, as well as the impact of these events on the broader context of African decolonization and international relations.

Why is the title 'Conflicting Missions' significant to the book's content?

The title 'Conflicting Missions' is significant to the book's content as it encapsulates the central themes of geopolitical conflict and divergent objectives during the Cold War, particularly in the context of U.S. and Cuban involvement in Africa. The book examines how these conflicting missions shaped diplomatic relations and military strategies, highlighting the struggles for power and influence among superpowers and smaller nations. It delves into the ideological battles between capitalism and socialism, as well as the local aspirations of African nations caught in the crossfire of these larger geopolitical conflicts.

How does the author support his arguments and conclusions throughout the book?

In 'Conflicting Missions,' Piero Gleijeses supports his arguments and conclusions through a rigorous examination of primary sources, including diplomatic correspondence, official documents, and firsthand accounts from key figures involved in the events he discusses. He also employs a comparative historical analysis, contrasting U.S. and Cuban interventions in Angola to highlight the complexities of their missions and the geopolitical context. Furthermore, Gleijeses integrates scholarly interpretations and critiques, situating his work within the broader historiography of the Cold War and interventions in Africa. His narrative is enriched by thorough research and a balanced presentation of perspectives, which lends credibility to his arguments.

Conflicting Missions

'Conflicting Missions' by Piero Gleijeses unravels the intricate and often turbulent relationship between the United States and Cuba during the Cold War. Through meticulous research and engaging narratives, Gleijeses highlights the clash of ideologies and ambitions that shaped the destinies of both nations. Readers are drawn into the drama of diplomatic efforts and military maneuvers that unfolded behind the scenes. This exploration of history not only sheds light on a pivotal era but also provokes questions about loyalty, power, and the nature of conflict. Dive into a compelling tale that reveals how miscalculations can lead to profound consequences on the global stage.

By Piero Gleijeses

Published: 2002

""In the clash of ideologies and interests, the true cost of conflict is often measured not in territory gained, but in lives forever altered.""

History Politics and Current Affairs Political History Global Conflict

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This is an account of Cuban policy in Africa from 1959-1976 & of its clash with US policy toward the continent. It covers Cuba's first steps to assist Algerian rebels fighting France in 1961 to the dispatch of 30,000 Cubans to Angola in 1975-76.

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Key Points from Conflicting Missions

In "Conflicting Missions," author Piero Gleijeses systematically examines the fraught relationship between the United States and Cuba during the Cold War, framing it as a complex interplay of ideological confrontations, national interests, and power struggles. One notable example he provides is the U.S. response to Cuba’s 1959 revolution, which resulted in the rise of Fidel Castro and the establishment of a socialist government. The U.S. perceived this as a direct threat to its influence in the Western Hemisphere, leading to decisive actions such as the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 and the subsequent Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. These events highlight how U.S. policies were often driven not just by a desire to contain communism but also by economic interests and the hegemonic pursuit of dominance in the region. This point is significant as it underscores the idea that the U.S.-Cuba dynamic was not merely a bilateral conflict but one that reverberated through global politics, influencing the strategies of other nations, particularly in Latin America and beyond. The theme of conflicting missions also aligns with broader arguments in the book regarding the complexities of Cold War geopolitics, where ideological rhetoric often masked underlying national interests, demonstrating that the U.S. government’s pursuit of its objectives frequently led to unintended consequences and global tensions.

About the Author

Piero Gleijeses

Piero Gleijeses is a distinguished historian and author, renowned for his comprehensive research on Cold War politics, particularly in relation to Latin America. His notable works include 'Conflicting Missions: Havana, Washington, and Africa, 1959-1976,' which examines Cuba’s involvement in Africa, and 'Visions of Freedom: Havana, Washington, Pretoria, and the Struggle for Southern Africa, 1976-1991,' a detailed exploration of international relations during the anti-apartheid struggle. Gleijeses's writing is characterized by its meticulous detail, rigorous analysis, and a commitment to uncovering the nuances of historical narratives.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Piero Gleijeses
Published: January 2002
Publisher: Univ of North Carolina Press
ISBN: 0807854646
Language: English
Pages: 580
Genres: HistoryGlobal ConflictPolitical HistoryPolitics and Current Affairs

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“"In the clash of ideologies and interests, the true cost of conflict is often measured not in territory gained, but in lives forever altered."”

Conflicting Missions

By Piero Gleijeses

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Conflicting Missions

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Voices of a People's History of the United States, 10th Anniversary Edition

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