Thoughts on the landing of Air Force One in Havana

Why is the Obama family visit to Cuba such an important event? What historical context is involved? Why is this event relevant today and what does the Obama visit mean?

            This historical event of the Obama’s visiting Cuba is important because it is opening door for both sides. However, the Cuban population are divided on the Obama visit. Some Cubans fear and are “overwhelmed by the Colossus from the North” and believe that the USA will try to interfere in the countries affairs. Additionally, Cubans are worried that the something could go wrong, for example, Obama having a misinterpretation of the Cuban history. The other side, the majority side, are excited about the visit and believe this visit could benefit the country. If the trip successful, there will be more tourism, trade between both countries, and travel freely among both countries. These Cubans view the economic prosperity of having relations with the USA. If there is trade, Cuba can get some of the popular U.S. brand products; if these is U.S. investment, there will be good jobs and better wages jobs. Obama’s visit is being contained and controlled by the Cuban government. There would be no large outdoor speech, but a small one with hand-picked people in the audience.  Obama can meet with local entrepreneurs, however, it has to be private. Feinberg discusses that President Obama was the right President to visit Cuba because he is humble, respectful, and sense of irony. The prediction of this visit is that it will be successful.

            The historical context is very important for analyzing the meaning of Obama’s visit to Cuba because of the Cold War. Cuba allied with the Soviet Union and had missiles directed to the USA. There is also the tension over democracy vs. communism. USA showed its imperialist power in history especially in Latin America. For example, in El Salvador civil war was a Communist Party trying to overthrow the Salvadorian government. The United States intervened by aiding the government to stop the spread of Communism. The USA wanted to prevent another Cuba in Latin America.  I understand the fear of some of the Cubans that believe that the USA will be this imperialist country that will try to control them. History has shown that the USA tend to do that; for example, the creation of the Panama Canal. The USA built the Panama Canal because it benefited the USA. I just hope that history can stay history and these two countries can move forward. I feel like both countries can benefit. Cuba would be able to invest with a great power like the USA. The USA will not be left behind on world invest and affairs because it is trying to amend relations with Cuba. I also truly believe Obama was the best President to go to Cuba. He is very humble and being a minority, he can relate to the people. Overall, I also predict relations with the USA and Cuba will improve.