[3] In the following weeks, President Fidel Castro quelled the frustration by opening the doors of the country and allowing Cubans to leave, which had a significant impact on Cuba's relationship with the United States moving forward.

[5] Throughout this time, the Soviet bloc had been Cuba's main trading partner, serving as a safety net that guaranteed economic security and basic needs for citizens.

[7] Food consumption throughout the city was cut to around one-fifth of its previous level, resulting in a stark decrease in caloric intake among Cuban citizens.

[5] In an attempt to revamp the economy, the government increased production of hard currency, rejoined international trade networks, and opened the market to self-employment and small businesses.

Shortly after leaving Cuba's coast, the boat sank and government vessels provided very limited assistance, causing 37 passengers to drown.

[8] On 5 August, Cuban authorities discovered an illegal boat passage that many citizens were using to reach the U.S.[3] In response, they formed a blockade around the Malecon, preventing anyone from leaving the island.

[4] These refugees were initially welcomed into the United States due to the Cuban Adjustment Act, which gave them a pathway to legal residency.

This allowed the U.S. to turn away Cuban immigrants that were stopped at sea (wet foot), while still accepting those who made it to shore (dry feet).