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Invasion begins
Around 1,400 Cuban exiles (Brigade 2506), trained by the CIA, land at Playa Girón in the Bay of Pigs.
Initial landings are chaotic — coral reefs damage supply boats.
Cuban militia and army quickly respond with tanks, aircraft, and artillery.
No popular uprising happens, as the invaders had hoped.
Key loss: Two U.S.-piloted planes shot down. -
Fierce fighting continues
Castro’s forces push the invaders inland, cut off their supplies, and isolate beachheads.
Without air support (because of Kennedy’s cancellation), the exiles are overwhelmed.
U.S. Navy ships nearby are ordered not to intervene directly.
Fierce fighting results in heavy casualties and loss of morale among the invaders. -
Invasion ends
Final resistance by Brigade 2506 breaks down.
The majority are captured, and many are killed.
U.S. has no choice but to admit involvement.
Outcome: A total defeat for the CIA-backed forces.