History of Bay of Pigs in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 26, 2026

The Bay of Pigs is an inlet on Cuba's southern coast that has been part of multiple provinces due to administrative reorganizations. It is best known as the site of the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion in April 1961, when United States-trained Cuban exiles attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro's communist government. The invasion, planned under President Eisenhower and executed under President Kennedy, was a major embarrassment for the U.S. and contributed to increased tensions between the U.S. and Cuba, ultimately leading to the Cuban Missile Crisis.

1910: Included in Santa Clara Province

In 1910, the Bay of Pigs was included in Santa Clara Province.

April 1961: Bay of Pigs Invasion Landing

In April 1961, Playa Girón and Playa Larga were the landing sites for armed Cuban exiles, with some American planes providing support in the American CIA-sponsored Bay of Pigs Invasion, an attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro's government.