A New Détente

it started out optimistically enough (sign in Miami harbor                               GRAP/Getty Images

There has been talk about normalizing relations with Cuba off and on for a long time. It was on our president's list of the things he wanted to do if elected. He was elected, and he made it happen. Of course, this is just the first step. The embargo continues in place for now, but measures are in progress that may make life a little easier on the island. So, Why now? There are several factors that led to this move at this particular time, one of which was the deteriorating health of detainee Alan Gross. This article looks at other factors and gives an overview of the process and probable consequences: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-30524560