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In the 1950s, many Americans viewed Cuba as “simply paradise”.

This article explores the reality of life for Cubans in the 1950s, challenging the popular perception of Cuba as a paradise. It discusses the socioeconomic disparities, government indifference, and foreign business interests that characterized Cuban society before the revolution.

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In the 1950s, many Americans viewed Cuba as “simply paradise”.

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  1. In the 1950s, many Americans viewed Cuba as “simply paradise”. http://www.flickr.com/photos/27747927@N00/2830612461

  2. http://cruiselinehistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/cce00001.jpghttp://cruiselinehistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/cce00001.jpg http://www.arkivatropika.com/images/pictures/1108_large.JPG

  3. Havana Riviera Hotel http://www.mediamanageress.com/cuba/hotels/photos/hotel-riviera-pool-200.jpg http://www.cubaheritage.org/images/art/havana-casino.jpg

  4. But, this perception was far from reality for the majority of Cubans prior to the Revolution Source: Evans, Walker. Cuba

  5. Source: Evans, Walker. Cuba Cuban family eating from a breadline.

  6. The Reality of what many Cubans Experienced in the 1950s • Many Cubans owned little to no farm land. • There was a big gap in individual’s wealth and income. • Many Cubans were regarded as second class citizens by the government and foreign investors. • The Cuban government was unresponsive to the needs of its citizens and catered to the demands of foreign business interests.

  7. What decade do you think this picture was taken?If you owned this car today, what would be the pros/cons of owning it?(List at least two for each)

  8. Cuba: Overview of Society and Politics in the 20th century Questions to Consider… • Should nations interfere in the freedom and affairs of other nations? • If so…under what circumstances is this justified?

  9. The Fight over Cuba

  10. Why Cuba? • Manifest Destiny • Example to demonstrate U.S. naval and military power • Imperialism • Protect U.S. investments in Cuba

  11. Ybor City and the Cigar Industry (1886) Ethnic Community Jose Martí “Cuba Libre!” “Con Todos y Para Todos” http://www.latinamericanstudies.org/cuba.htm Cuban Exile Community

  12. Yellow Journalism de Lome Letter U.S.S. Maine Another “Spain”? Discussion Question: What problems could arise if the U.S. decided to send troops to Cuba? U.S. Involvement

  13. Cuban-Spanish-American War • Cuba had been fighting for independence since 1868. • The U.S. decided to intervene…but was never officially asked to do so. • Many Cubans take offense to this. • 1898…Spain is defeated in 6 weeks

  14. The U.S. and Cuba: The Early Years • What message does this picture convey? • Do you think this is an accurate depiction of U.S./Cuban relations after the Platt Amendment was enacted?

  15. The U.S. in Cuba American businesses had a major stake in much of Cuba’s economy. The U.S. government and business supported Cuba’s leader Fulgencio Batista. Batista was also supported by the American Mafia. http://www.latinamericanstudies.org/us-cuba-1902-1997.htm

  16. Fulgencio Batista

  17. Batista’s Rule Batista’s regime soon began to attack citizens whom the government perceived as a threat. http://www.historyofcuba.com/history/funfacts/batist.htm

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