Cuba

Patriotism or death

1492 Columbus claimed Cuba for Spain.

1898 Spanish American War gave Cuba to the United States until it’s independence in 1902. • Kept Guantanamo Bay

Fragile democracy was replaced by the authoritarian dictator Batista in 1952; corruption and oppression of the people.

1959 Overthrow of Batista by Fidel Castro who made a single-party state under communism.

Guantanamo Bay, U.S. Naval Base

Castro and government seized all private property; took control of all social sectors of society (media, government, education, medical, etc.); imprisoned or exiled political opposition.• Executed 15-17,000 people• “re-educated” teachers, professors, religious

leaders, etc.

U.S. angered due to the seizing of U.S. property equaling about 1 billion dollars.

1961 U.S. Bay of Pigs Invasion attempted to overthrow Castro government; CIA trained Cuban exiles.

1961 Cuban missile crisis occurred when JFK demanded the Soviets withdraw Cuban missiles pointed at the U.S. (90 miles from Florida).

1962 U.S. embargo on Cuba; restriction to spend money in Cuba results in a travel restriction for U.S. citizens to go to the island.

Over 1 million Cubans fled Cuba for the United States.

Obama Administration seeks “new beginnings with Cuba;” has allowed Cuban Americans to travel and new visa options for Americans.

2008 Fidel Castro succeeded power to his brother Raul.

2011 Cuba announce the beginning of private property and business within a year.

Reform possible under Raul.

Observations Beautiful environment. Infrastructure amazing, but falling apart

due to them not being “kept up.” No racism or sexism No poverty, homelessness, disease, etc. People frustrated and wanting more. Political suppression Police state No options for ANYTHING Propaganda everywhere

2 types of currency Not enough rations Black market No technology Old vehicles and machinery Feeling of safety Music everywhere! Discrimination against able bodied

intelligent people.• “In communism, inequality comes from placing

mediocrity on a level with excellence.” –Pierre Joseph Prudhon