14. Operation Zapata (Bay of Pigs)
In April 1961, the CIA-backed invasion of Cuba, known as Operation Zapata or the Bay of Pigs Invasion, aimed to overthrow Fidel Castro’s government. Approximately 1,400 Cuban exiles, trained and equipped by the CIA, landed at the Bay of Pigs on Cuba’s southern coast. The operation faced immediate challenges, including inadequate air support and underestimation of Castro’s military strength. Within three days, the invasion collapsed, resulting in the capture or death of most exiles. This failure embarrassed the U.S. and strengthened Castro’s position.
