History: Cuba & Batista Lecture

Overview

  • The lecture covers the impact of U.S. involvement in Cuba, key historical figures, and concepts related to imperialism and independence.

Introduction

  • The instructor expresses uncertainty regarding a doctor's appointment next Friday, the class is referred to as blocked for the day, and students are expected to bring materials for Independent Assignment (IA).

  • There will be a Howard Zinn reading (7 pages) for homework, along with a chapter from Ada Ferrer, Chapter 3, both relevant for an upcoming test.

Shift in Themes

  • The day's lecture merges two topics due to time constraints, pivoting towards:

    • Race

    • Colonization

    • Independence

    • Democracy

  • Focuses on shifts from militarism and imperialism post-World War I to current concepts.

Cuban Intervention

  • Inquiry into the U.S. motivation for intervention in Cuba:

    • U.S. has imposed severe economic embargoes on Cuba, restricting trade and access.

    • Marco Rubio's push for war is highlighted, showcasing personal stakes due to roots in Cuban refugee family.

  • Importance of understanding the historical backdrop of these interventions.

Historical Background

Columbus and Indigenous Population

  • Year 1492: Columbus sails, initially mistaking the Bahamas for India, claiming territories without real knowledge of location.

  • 8 years after Columbus’s arrival:

    • 8 out of 10 natives dead due to war, malnutrition, and disease.

  • By 1530:

    • Indigenous population of Hispaniola declines by 96%.

    • These events are classified as genocide.

  • Example of Hattui, a nobleman from Hispaniola:

    • Speech against Spaniards, emphasizing gold as the motive behind their cruelty; persecution leads to his execution.

The Monroe Doctrine

  • Introduced in the early 1800s, asserting that American independence relies on the absence of European intervention in the Western Hemisphere.

  • The U.S. position to acquire territories like Cuba and Puerto Rico following the doctrine prompts intervention strategies for those still under Spanish control.

  • Implication: The right of intervention for the sake of maintaining independence set forth U.S. intentions in the region.

Key Figures in Cuban History

Carlos Manuel de Céspedes

  • Known for freeing his slaves as a political movement towards genuine independence for Cuba.

    • His plantation had a significant number of enslaved laborers who fought alongside for freedom.

    • Viewed as a symbol of equality, his actions significantly impacted future revolutionary sentiments.

José Martí

  • A pivotal figure and poet promoting equality and independence, educated in the U.S.

    • Early admiration for U.S. democracy turns to criticism of racism and inequality.

    • Notable quote reflecting on the hypocrisy of American values regarding racial violence.

War with Spain (1898)

  • Context of America’s entry into Cuba’s struggle for independence highlighted:

    • Span’s weakening colonial hold, with Cuba almost achieving freedom.

    • The explosion of the USS Maine used as a pretext for war, although instigated by U.S. actions.

  • Result: U.S. entering the Spanish-American War leads to a significant transformation of Cuban governance under U.S. influence.

The Treaty of Paris and its Implications

  • Treaty signals the beginning of U.S. colonial rule in Cuba and the establishment of the Teller and Platt Amendments.

    • U.S. claiming the right to intervene in Cuban affairs to maintain independence, thus contradicting claims of sovereignty.

    • Long-term presence assured through stipulations allowing U.S. military installations (Guantanamo Bay).

  • U.S. maintains economic interests, especially in sugar plantations, mirroring current geopolitical interests.

Batista Regime

  • Rise of Fulgencio Batista during a time of political upheaval, taking control over Cuba through a coup.

    • Known for corruption, repression of civil liberties, and misalignment with true independence ideologies.

    • Economic ties with organized crime leading to a rise in casinos and U.S. tourists, leaving Cuban citizens in poverty.

  • The political climate grows increasingly unstable, fostering opposition and resistance among the population.

Edoardo Chibas and Political Opposition

  • Chibas’s advocacy for transparency and political freedom; he represents the voice of opposition.

    • His dramatic suicide on air symbolizes the desperation against corruption and oppression.

Conclusion

  • Anticipation of discussions on Fidel Castro in subsequent lectures, presenting a complex figure navigating Cuba’s future.

  • Emphasis on understanding the historical narrative leading to revolutionary ideologies and implications of past leaders on contemporary Cuba.