Cuba

A quick tour of the island

Located about 90 miles south of Key West Florida. Cuba is the largest island and one of the most beautiful islands in the West Indies. Located about 90 miles south of Key West Florida. The island lies at the intersection of major sea routes between the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean sea, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Total Population 11 million

Official Language Spanish

Havana Capitol City

Agriculture Cuba’s most important crop Sugar Cane

Coffee Fruits and Vegetables

Tobacco

About 85% of Cuban’s are Roman Catholic

Several small Protestant groups practice in Cuba

All Cuban’s from the age of 6-14 Education All Cuban’s from the age of 6-14 are required to attend school. Education is Free

Nearly all adult Cubans can read and write. Education Nearly all adult Cubans can read and write.

The Arts Cuba has a distinguished tradition in the Arts paintings Film Industries Music Dance

Dance class in Cuba could it be the mambo? Cha, Cha?

A short History of the island

For most of its History, Cuba has been under the colonial rule of Spain. In 1898, Cuba gained its independence from Spain with the signing of the treaty of Paris

With the signing of the “Treaty of Paris” the Spanish American War ended and Cuba was turned over to the United States. Three years later, the United States gave Cuba its official independence. May 20, 1902

For the next 57 years the fight for power and democracy was launched. From 1934 to 1952, Batista was in and out of power until knew he could not win so he seizes power.

Batista forced Grau to resign from office in 1934 Batista ruled Cuba as dictator through presidents who served in name only.

The United States supported Batista’s government. The United States invested in Cuba from 1940-1950

Batista inspecting weapons

Batista stresses the development of light industry and encouraged foreign companies to build businesses in Cuba. He improved public works. However many remained unemployed and in poverty..

Political conflict expanded across the island Political conflict expanded across the island. Strikes and demonstrations became common

Dictator until this man. Batista rules as Dictator until this man. Fidel Castro a young Lawyer who starts a Revolution against Batista.

1959-2010 Today Cuba has been ruled under the Dictator Castro. Castro is the longest active ruler in the world today. 1959-2010