Wiser World 47. Cuba 101 - Part 1
Jan 29, 2025
Explore Cuba's captivating history from its indigenous roots to its path toward independence. Discover the impact of Christopher Columbus and Spanish colonization on the island's evolution. Learn about the role of the transatlantic slave trade in shaping Cuba's economy, especially through the sugar industry. Uncover how the Haitian Revolution influenced Cuba's political climate and what it meant for the enslaved population. Dive into the complexities surrounding Cuba's independence, its relationship with the U.S., and notable figures like José Martí.
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Cuban Geography
- Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, shaped like an alligator.
- Its diverse geography includes plains, hills, mountains, and mangroves.
Pre-Columbian Cuba & Columbus' Impact
- Indigenous people inhabited Cuba for millennia before Columbus' arrival in 1492.
- Columbus' landing initiated Spanish colonization and drastically impacted the native population.
Impact of Spanish Colonization
- Spanish colonization led to disease, forced labor, and a decline in the native population.
- Europeans sought slaves from other islands to replace the dwindling native workforce.
