Overview
This lecture covers the causes, events, and aftermath of the Cuban Revolution, focusing on Fidel Castro's rise to power and the impact on Cuban society and international relations.
Background and Causes of the Cuban Revolution
- Cuba was a Spanish colony for 400 years, with Spain exploiting its resources.
- By the 1860s, Spaniards controlled 90% of Cuban wealth but were only 8% of the population.
- Growing nationalism led to independence movements and a 10-year war against Spain, which failed.
- In 1898, the USS Maine explosion led to U.S. intervention and the Spanish-American War.
- The Teller Amendment promised Cuban freedom, but the Platt Amendment gave U.S. control over Cuba, including Guantanamo Bay.
- A series of dictators ruled Cuba until Batista's 1933 revolt, leading to his presidency (1940-1944) and initial support for democratic reforms.
- After a period in exile, Batista seized power again in a 1952 military coup with U.S. backing, canceling elections and aligning with U.S. business and organized crime.
Rise of Fidel Castro and the Revolution
- Fidel Castro, from a wealthy background, became a lawyer and political activist advocating democracy.
- Frustrated by corruption and Batista's coup, Castro turned to revolution.
- On July 26, 1953, Castro led the failed attack on the Moncada Barracks, marking the start of the 26th of July Movement.
- Castro and allies regrouped in Mexico, returning in 1956 with 82 men; only 22 survived initial attacks but launched a guerrilla movement in the Sierra Maestra mountains.
- By 1957, Castro's forces had grown and controlled the mountains, joined by other anti-Batista groups.
- Batista’s harsh crackdowns alienated the U.S. and Cuban public.
- In 1958, Batista failed to defeat Castro militarily; Castro’s forces launched successful assaults, culminating in the capture of Santa Clara on December 31, 1958.
- Batista fled, and Castro's forces entered Havana on January 1, 1959.
Castro’s Rule and Changes in Cuba
- Castro became Prime Minister in 1959, ruling Cuba for around 40 years.
- Rapid changes included nationalizing industries, collectivizing agriculture, and launching a massive literacy campaign.
- The U.S. attempted to overthrow Castro in 1961 (Bay of Pigs Invasion), which failed.
- Castro allied with the Soviet Union, leading to the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
- Cuba sent troops abroad to support revolutionary movements in Africa and Latin America.
Challenges and Legacy
- The CIA tried to assassinate Castro multiple times, with no success.
- Economic hardships increased after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, ending Soviet subsidies.
- Castro's leadership made him a controversial world figure, viewed as a hero by some and a dictator by others.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Platt Amendment — Gave the U.S. the right to intervene in Cuban affairs and control over Guantanamo Bay.
- 26th of July Movement — Revolutionary group led by Castro, named after the 1953 Moncada Barracks attack.
- Bay of Pigs Invasion — Failed 1961 U.S.-backed attempt by Cuban exiles to overthrow Castro.
- Cuban Missile Crisis — 1962 confrontation between the U.S. and the USSR over Soviet missiles in Cuba.
- Guerrilla Warfare — Irregular, small-group military tactics used by Castro’s forces.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the key events from 1895–1959 for the Cuban Revolution timeline.
- Study the causes and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
- Prepare for discussion on Castro’s reforms and their long-term impact on Cuba.