Operation PBSuccess targeted the government of which country in 1954?

• A. Guatemala
• B. Brazil
• C. Argentina
• D. Peru

Answer: (A)

During the Cold War, the United States pursued covert actions to block the spread of communism in Latin America. Operation PBSuccess is a clear example of that mindset, aimed at preventing a left-leaning government in Guatemala from taking root. The plan sought to topple Jacobo Árbenz through a mix of political pressure, economic disruption, and a CIA-backed military operation, ultimately installing a pro-American regime under Carlos Castillo Armas. The motive included Árbenz’s land reform policies and concerns from U.S. business interests like the United Fruit Company, perceived as a threat in the region. The result in 1954 was the overthrow of Árbenz and the installation of a government favorable to U.S. interests. The other countries listed were not the targets of this operation.