The Banana Wars

What is the Banana Wars?

The Banana Wars, initiated by the Spanish-American War, is an umbrella term for the multitude of U.S. military interventions in Central America and the Caribbean. These interventions happened between 1898 and 1934, causing political and economic instability for many if not all, Latin American countries involved. The U.S. military justification for these interventions was centered around the idea of protecting American businesses like the United Fruit Company. 

 

" The Dark History of Bananas - John Soluri "

 

 

 

Key Terms

Lesson Activities

Extra Resources/ Materials

Article on Bananas Business in Colombia 

It is an easy to read article that allows readers gain a good general scope of what took place in Colombia in regards to the banana companies and demonstrates the role the U.S. took 

Video about Chiquita 

An 8 minute video that analyzes why Chiquita is trying to battle a bill to help victims of terrorism.

    Chiquita Papers Document over $800,000 in Payments to Colombian Guerrillas 

    Article critically analyzes the documentations of payments made by Chiquita to terrorists groups in Colombia 

    The Banana Wars: How The U.S. Plundered Central America On Behalf Of Corporations 

    This source is great for pictures and includes a general overview of the wars.