1. Rise to power; Castro Historical context

2.  Wars of independence against Spain, 1868-78 and 1895-1898  Cuban independence in 1902 ( Jose Marti, ”Apostle”)  The Platt Amendent, 1901; USA`s right to intervene in Cuba´s affairs → to ensure that Cuban government followed policies good for US investments → US dominated Cuban economy  Opposition against Cuban corruption How did the historical context of Cuba before 1953 contribute to Castro´s rise to power?

3.  1902-1933 Presidents supported by the US, ruled as dictators  Grau´s rule 1933-34; the Platt Amendment was abolished, reforms were introduced → U. S´s anger  Batista as a dictator and the rule through puppet presidents between 1934-59  U.S support  army power  corruption

4.  Opposition suppressed  Grau´s Autenticos-party for the middle-class, later working together with Batista and corruption continued.  Communists ( PSP) co-operated with Batista  PRC Ortodoxo a new party, calling for social reforms from 1947 onwards