The Banana's Role in Cold War Politics

What makes bananas cheaper than local apples despite being imported?

• Subsidies on banana imports

• Economies of scale in banana production

• Bananas are easier to transport

• Higher production costs for apples

Who were the key players in forming the United Fruit Company?

• A train operator and a sales executive

• A train operator and a sales app developer

• A ship operator and a plantation owner

• A railway executive and a fruit vendor

What was the primary strategy of the United Fruit Company to ensure cheap banana prices?

• Outsourcing production to multiple countries

• Partnerships with local governments

• Vertical integration of all operations

• Heavy marketing and advertising

What led to the CIA's involvement in Guatemala in 1954?

• Economic interests in oil

• Communist threats perceived by the U.S.

• Human rights violations by the Guatemalan government

• Disputes over maritime boundaries

What was the codename for the CIA operation to overthrow Jacobo Arbenz?

• Operation Rescue

• Operation Success

• Operation Freedom

• Operation Liberty

How did the United Fruit Company influence the U.S. government's decision to intervene in Guatemala?

• Threats of military action

• Economic sanctions

• Public relations campaigns

• Bribing key politicians

What was the outcome for Guatemala after the CIA-backed coup?

• Transition to a fully democratic government

• A long civil war with many casualties

• Economic prosperity and stability

• Improved relations with the U.S.

What long-term impact did the coup have on the local population of Guatemala?

• Increased employment in agriculture

• Enhanced infrastructure and education

• Discovery of mass graves and ongoing violence

• Rapid industrial development

Why are bananas still cheaper than apples?

• Global surplus of banana production

• Advanced agricultural techniques

• Government subsidies for bananas

• Historical pricing trends

What does the story of bananas suggest about consumer behavior?

• High demand for organic products

• Indifference to the ethical implications of production

• Preference for locally sourced products

• Focus on nutritional value over cost