In Conflicting Missions: Havana, Washington, Pretoria, Piero Gleijeses delivers a groundbreaking analysis of the Cold War-era conflict in southern Africa, examining the intersection of global powers and the complex dynamics between Cuba, the United States, and apartheid-era South Africa. This meticulously researched work sheds light on the geopolitical tug-of-war that unfolded in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly focusing on the Angolan Civil War, the battle for independence in Namibia, and the larger struggle for influence in Africa during the Cold War.

Gleijeses, a noted historian, explores the often-overlooked role that Cuba played in supporting liberation movements across the continent, specifically through its military involvement in Angola. The book reveals how Cuban troops, under the leadership of Fidel Castro, clashed with South African forces that were backed by the United States in an effort to suppress left-wing revolutions in Africa. The work also details how U.S. policy, shaped by its broader Cold War strategy, was in direct conflict with the interests of both African liberation movements and the Soviet Union.

By examining previously unreleased documents, interviews with key figures, and the intricate political machinations of all parties involved, Conflicting Missions presents a nuanced perspective on a pivotal moment in history. Gleijeses challenges conventional narratives and provides a fresh understanding of the motivations behind U.S. foreign policy, the strategic aims of South Africa, and the commitment of Cuba to the African liberation struggle.

This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the Cold War, African history, or the complex interplay between superpowers and emerging nations. Conflicting Missions offers invaluable insights into the historical forces that shaped southern Africa’s political landscape in the late 20th century