【史海回眸】美策动政变，危地马拉总统1954年被迫下台

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the U.S. government's covert operations during the Cold War, specifically focusing on the CIA's orchestration of the coup against Guatemalan President Jacobo Árbenz in 1954, which was driven by economic interests and political control in the region [1][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - Guatemala, located in Central America, gained independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1821 and saw significant U.S. capital investment starting in the late 19th century, particularly from the United Fruit Company, which controlled the country's economic lifelines [1]. - Jacobo Árbenz was democratically elected as President in 1951 and implemented reforms such as minimum wage laws, increased investment in education, and land redistribution, which garnered popular support but conflicted with the interests of the United Fruit Company [1][3]. Group 2: U.S. Intervention - The U.S. government, concerned about Árbenz's reforms and alleged ties to the Soviet Union, initiated a covert operation to overthrow his government, approving a budget of $2.7 million for this purpose [3][4]. - The CIA's strategy included psychological warfare, airstrikes, and the recruitment of a rebel army led by Carlos Castillo Armas, which ultimately failed to achieve military success against the Guatemalan army [4]. Group 3: Aftermath of the Coup - Following Árbenz's resignation on June 27, 1954, under pressure from the U.S. and military officials, Castillo Armas was installed as president, reversing many of Árbenz's reforms and establishing a pro-U.S. regime [5]. - Castillo Armas's government reallocated land back to the United Fruit Company, revoked labor rights, and initiated a campaign against perceived communists, leading to widespread arrests and executions [5].