Abstract : The author examines the economic reforms recently introduced into Cuba, by its President, Fidel Castro. He argues that the United States may have arrived at the moment necessary to launch a major political initiative aimed at securing the retirement of the Castro brothers and provide Cuba with a peaceful transition to democracy and a more open economy. The author suggests that if the United States could provide Castro with a way of salvaging his place in history, the Cuban leader might just grab the opportunity. This will provide him with one last chance to play his favorite role as 'savior of the Cuban nation' by magnanimously sacrificing himself for the good of his people. While the strategy carries a considerable price tag, it is argued that the risks and costs would be far less than if the United States does nothing and the country explodes. Cuba, Economic reforms, Castro, U.S. Policy, Political implications.