About the Program
Stephen Schwab, former senior analyst for the CIA's South America Division, presents a history of America's military base in Guantanamo, Cuba. Residing on 45 square miles, Mr. Schwab recalls the establishment of the base following the Spanish-American War as America's first foreign naval base. Initially granted a lease in perpetuity by Cuba, the Castro government insists that the base violates international law and according to the author refuses to bank the rent paid by the United States. Mr. Schwab examines the different uses of the base throughout its history from using its location to prevent European expansion in the Caribbean to a convoy hub during WWII and it's current usage as a coast guard station, base for counter narcotics operations, and a prison. Stephen Schwab discusses his book at Left Bank Books in St. Louis.