Incredibly Well-Researched

This is a wonderfully written, extensively researched monograph about the infamous Bay of Pigs fiasco in 1961 during the Kennedy Administration. Howard Jones has delved deep into the archives and Presidential papers to present one of the most complete accounts to date of the lead-up, the execution, and the aftermath of the event.

A couple of crucial elements that are reinforced through this work. Firstly, the Kennedy brothers were transfixed on the idea of assassinating Castro. And in the ultimate irony, is the fact that both Kennedy brothers were themselves victims of assassination plots while Castro lives on to this day. Secondly, Jones' confirms the notion that Kennedy's politics, and specifically his obsession with secrecy and the idea of "plausible deniability" undermined what was actually a sound military plan. Fidel Castro himself admitted that the Americans had a good plan, that was poorly executed.

Though beyond the scope of the book, one is left to wonder what quagmire awaited had the invasion succeeded. Indeed, after reading Jones' conclusions, gives impetus to reconsider the traditional view that Kennedy would not have expanded the war in Vietnam as his successor LBJ did. The Kennedy's were hardened cold-war warriors and the failure of the Bay of Pigs only stiffened their resolve.

Cannot recommend this book enough. "Bay of Pigs" is a terrific addition to the Pivotal Moments in American History series, and a must read for anyone studying 20th century American history. ( )