yr13_ia_2007_douzmanian_c

=Evaluation of Sources (250-400 words)=


 * __Extract from Kennedy post invasion speech__**

This is a speech by John F. Kennedy in 1961, two days after the Bay of Pigs invasion by a “Cuban” militia. This source is extremely valuable because it is a presidential speech delivered shortly after the invasion- hence, fresh at the time. It is also very valuable because Kennedy does not hide his intentions, and makes the threat that Cuba poses very clear, and bewares the American people of the danger that communism and Cuba could pose, all while reminding that not every Cuban is like this, and only the “communist pigs” behave in such way. Last but not least, in this speech, Kennedy reminds the world, America’s true values. And values were thought to be the most important aspect of American society.

This source is limited though. It is intended to make America look good- therefore it is opinionated. He barely states any facts, and rather just describes the actions and re-actions that led America, and the militia to plan this attack. The target audience is the everyday American meaning that the speech has to be given in a tone, which leaves the citizen full of pride and glory and passion for their country. Strategically, this speech was near perfect. The tone used almost makes us want to forget that the invasion had even failed. “Let me then make clear as the President of the United States that I am determined upon our system's survival and success, regardless of the cost and regardless of the peril!”


 * Operation Secret Kimbo**

This source is a report made by an on field CIA agent, in Cuba, January 17th 1961, three months before the invasion. This source is an excellent piece of information. One reason being that it is a top-secret report, being that they use code names such as “SECRET KIMBO”. Another reason being that it has specific details of possible training of a Cuban Pilot, for an eventual attack on the United States, giving America a reason to get involved with Cuba. The facts stated above are also precise, and real. The agent gives exact dates, and locations that all of the machine power is being handled or used.

There are a couple of limitations on this source as well. The fact that it is top-secret makes the source very brief and secret, which minimizes our knowledge of the background of this source.