0786407344 (softcover : alk. paper)

9780786407347 (softcover : alk. paper)

9780786477562 (softcover : alk. paper)

0786477563 (softcover : alk. paper)

"The transition from the Carter to the Reagan presidency created marked changes in United States policy toward Central America." "As United States ambassador to Honduras, Jack Binns witnessed the mounting confusion brought about by the pursuit of separate agendas by various agencies and freelance policy practitioners." "Goals for the Honduran transition to democracy were undermined, and conditions became increasingly chaotic, leading at last to the machinations of Iran-Contra.".

"Ambassador Binns's account of these events sheds new light on the shadowed corners of U.S. policy during those difficult years. He demonstrates how the seeds were sown for the later problems with CIA operations and the collapse of Congressional oversight. He provides important lessons for the future of democracy, human rights, and the conduct of foreign policy."--BOOK JACKET.

Getting There Was Half the Fun

Learning the Ropes

The Circus Begins: Challenges and Diversions

New Administration Brings Confusion, Interagency Conflict

Improving Environment Sours Quickly

Damage Control, Honduran Schemes and Covert Plans

Policy Vacuum Continues as Troubles Mount

Transition Crisis Reached as My Replacement Is Named

Efforts to Block Elections and Conflict with U.S. Military

Coup Attempt Fails as I Wind Up

Tying Up Loose Ends: Some Important Later Events

Instructions for New Ambassador

Honduran Armed Forces, Strength and Structure, 1980-1981

Concerns About Regional Policies and Objectives.

Binns, Jack R., 1933- > Diaries.

Ambassadors > United States > Diaries.

United States > Foreign relations > Honduras.

Honduras > Foreign relations > United States.

United States > Foreign relations > 1977-1981.

Honduras > Politics and government > 1933-1982.

Honduras > Military policy.