Political Comparison: Canada and Cuba

Flashcards summarizing key political, economic, military, and social aspects of Canada and Cuba for a comparative study of their roles during the Cold War.

Political Alignment

Canada is a Western democracy and a founding NATO member (1949), while Cuba is a one-party socialist state aligned closely with the Soviet Union after the 1959 revolution.

Economic Policy

Canada has a mixed capitalist economy reliant on U.S. trade, while Cuba has a centrally planned socialist economy that nationalized U.S. businesses.

Relationship to Superpowers

Canada acted as a mediator and ally to the U.S., while Cuba served as a symbol of defiance to U.S. hegemony and an instrument of Soviet influence.

Military / Defense Role

Canada contributed to NATO and peacekeeping missions, while Cuba developed a large military with Soviet support and sent troops to African nations.

Foreign Policy Goals

Canada's goals include promoting peacekeeping and diplomacy, whereas Cuba seeks to export revolution and resist imperialism.

Domestic Impact

Canada's policies shaped a bilingual/multicultural self-image, while Cuba saw social reforms and the suppression of dissent under Castro.

International Role

Canada acted as a bridge between the U.S. and other nations advocating for global peacekeeping, while Cuba became a central player in the Non-Aligned Movement.

Legacy / Cold War Outcome

Canada emerged as a respected international mediator, while Cuba's revolution endured as a symbol of anti-imperialism, facing continued hardship.