Glenn O. Phillips
Abstract: In October of 1983 the United States sent troops to the Caribbean country Grenada. This was the first time in nearly eighteen years that the US has physically intervened in the affairs of a Western Hemisphere country’s affairs. This raises many questions as to what the US is attempting to gain out its presence in Grenada. It can be viewed either as an attempt by a superpower at increasing their sphere of influence in relation to another superpower, or it could be that the US is attempting to reassert the Monroe Doctrine. Whatever the reason, America needs to be extremely careful in this situation. This has the potential to become another Cold War confrontation, with the US and Russia both trying to increase their spheres of influence. While the US does have an interest in safeguarding the newly received sovereignty of Grenada and other Caribbean states, it should focus on doing this through mutual respect, instead of through its military. Viewing Grenada as simply capitalism v communism has the potential to end in another unwanted conflict. The US should instead be viewing this as an opportunity to safeguard the Grenadian peoples’ sovereignty, and the Grenadian people should be viewed respectfully.
Key Words: Grenada, Capitalism, Communism, Caribbean States, Cold War, Sphere of Influence
Click here to view full article
You must be logged in to post a comment.