Factors that led to the rise of Castro Loss of identity Failure of traditional political system

Spanish Colonization Spanish colonization (1492 – 1800) Spanish-American war Treaties of Paris – gave USA control over former Spanish colonies. Spanish massacres of Cuban people

American Exploitation USA military rule under the Teller Amendment – Platt Amendment – limits Cuba’s sovereignty Exploitation of land and resources

How the feeling of loss of identity helped Castro The Spanish colonization and the USA exploitation of Cuba created a long term resent for foreign intervention Castro promised a new independent Cuba Gave people hope and self esteem

Batista’s First Rule Batista launched a coup in 1933 Ruled from behind the scene 1934 – 1940 through succession of puppet presidents Became president himself in 1940 Met opposition However more peaceful than his second rule

Batista’s Second Rule - Dictatorship Returned to power illegally in 1952 Quickly became a dictator No political freedom Mock elections in 1954 Unpopular, met growing opposition

Socially unsuccessful… High illiteracy level Housing and medical care too expensive Rural areas suffered the most

…but the economy improved Havana became known as the “Latin Las Vegas” Constructions projects – many jobs created Growth of tourism In the 1950s Cuba was the third developed nation in the Americas

How the failure of political system helped Castro Succession of corrupt governments, lack of democracy Anti-Americanism stance – land reform Long term violence and oppression - Spanish massacres, then Batista’s violent regime Longing for a new, strong leader which is just what charismatic Castro stood for.