Update!
Good news! I replaced both cables, exchanged the new battery, touched the neg cable to the starter before re-installing the switch; cranked perfectly!!
put the new starter switch on; immediately acted like it was shorting out!
I took the new switch off, used the new insulator and all of the other old switch parts, perfect!! Fired right up and running like new. I was very careful to make sure the insulator was centered in the switch, contact was bent in the right place, and switch was centered on the starter button.
I have driven the car 28 miles. It has started flawlessly every time.
Thanks to all of you for the suggestions!!
Lights are still disconnected. I will be re-wiring them over the next couple of weeks and re-connecting. Good day today!!!