Elian Gonzalez's return to Cuba sparks outrage in Miami

In November 1999, Elian Gonzalez, a six-year-old boy from Cuba, was found floating on an inner tube off the coast of Dania Beach, Florida. This incident marked the beginning of a lengthy and tumultuous battle over his custody between his Cuban father, Juan Miguel Gonzalez, who wanted him returned, and his relatives in Miami, who sought to keep him in the United States. Supporters of the Miami relatives viewed Elian as a symbol of their resistance against Fidel Castro's regime, fearing that his return would serve as a propaganda victory for Castro. The legal battle escalated to involve state courts, federal courts, and even the White House, generating nationwide attention. Despite widespread protests and rallies in Miami from the Cuban American community, the U.S. government ultimately decided to return Elian to his father, leading to significant unrest and demonstrations in Miami, reflecting the deep divisions within the community concerning the situation.