1. The Cold War and the Americas, 1945- 1981
Objective 4.6: Explain the political, social, and economic causes of the Cuban Revolution and its impact on the region

2. Warm-Up: Deciding on Components of Democracy
Define the ideals of American democracy…
Are there any ideals that are not met?

3. Which of the following fit with the ideals of Americanized democracy and which do not?
“Power to the people”
Redistribution of land
Introduction of worker profit-sharing and pensions
Attack on corruption
Improvement of education
Nationalization of public utilities
Introduction of rent controls
Solidarity with “democratic peoples” of Latin America
Diversification of the economy

4. An extract from Castro’s speech at his trial in 1953, in which he outlined his plans if his revolt had succeeded
“…The problem of the land, the problem of industrialization, the problem of housing, the problem of unemployment, the problem of education, and the problem of the people’s health: these are the six problems we would take immediate steps to solve, along with the restoration of civil liberties and political democracy…Condemn me. It does not matter. History will absolve me.”
How might had Castro’s speech won him popular support?

5. Cuba While watching consider the following BIG QUESTION…
When and why does the “diplomatic” relationship between the United States and Cuba transform?

6. Cuba: Reflective Questions
In the 1940's and 50's, what was America's interest in Cuba?
How were American interests in Cuba affected by Castro's revolution in 1959? What does it mean to "nationalize" land and industry? What American reaction would you predict?
How does Castro describe the "triumph of the revolution?" How does his explanation compare with that in the footage that follows?
What can you infer from Oleg Troyanovski's description of Castro's relationship with the Soviet Union?

7. Quickwrite Read and analyze the documents
Organize a logical, argument to the below question
Answer the question below in a full-essay
Analyze the effect of the Cuban Revolution on women’s lives and gender roles

8. “What is life really like in Cuba?”

9. “What Americans get wrong about Cuba?”