20 th Century World History Origins and development of
authoritarian and single-party states
Slide 2
One of the few countries in the world that remains communist in
its ideology Spanish colony until 1898 Republic tied to the USA
after its independence in 1902 Was not a country that seem to be in
danger of a revolution. On the outside it did not seem to offer the
conditions necessary for a change in power and ideology. Cuba
Slide 3
Conditions against which Castro came to power Methods used in
his rise to power Analyzes of domestic policies up to 2000 Areas of
study
Slide 4
1926 birth of Fidel 1933 President Gerardo Machado is
overthrown by the head of the army, Fulgencio Bastista. 1934-44
Batista controls the country through puppet governments. 1934 The
Platt Amendment is abolished. USA retains a naval base in
Guantanamo Bay and trade agreements between the nations remain in
place 1940 Batista becomes President. A new constitution is
adopted. 1944-48 Authentic Party leader Ramon Grau San Martin
becomes President. 1948-52 Authentic Party leader Carlos Pro
Socarras rules Cuba. 1952 Batista seizes power in a coup against
Prio Socarras. 1953 Castro leads the Moncada assault against a
military garrison. He is sentenced to 15 years in prison. 1955
Castro is granted amnesty and leaves Cuba. 1956 Castro returns from
Mexico, leading the Granma expedition. He launches a military
campaign against Batista in the Sierra Maestra mountains. 1958 USA
withdraws assistance to President Batista. Batista's final
offensives against the rebels ends in failure. 1959 Batista flees
the country. Castors troops enter Havana and a provisional
government is set up. Fidel Castro becomes Prime Minister in
February. Expropriation and nationalization of businesses begins.
1960 Castor nationalizes foreign companies. USA abolishes Cuban
sugar quota an begins a economic blockade. Castro establishes
diplomatic and commercial relations with the Soviet Union. 1961 The
Bay of Pigs invasion is repelled. USA breaks diplomatic ties with
Cuba, and Castro announces the socialist character of the
revolution. 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. USA imposes a trade embargo
on Cuba. 1963 Castro makes his first visit to the soviet Union.
1967 Ernesto Che Guevara is killed in Bolivia 1968 Castro announces
the Revolutionary Offensive. 1970 The Ten Million Zaftaprogramme
fails to achieve its target. 1976 Under a new constitution, Castro
assumes the title of President of the state council, and becomes
head of state, head of government, and commander-in- chief of the
armed forces. 1980 Massive Cuban emigration of approximately 125,
000 people to the USA from the Mariel port. 1991 Cuba begins
Special Period in Times of Peace program following the end of
Soviet aid to Cuba. 1995 Castro visits China for the first time.
1998 Castro welcomes Pope John Paul II in the Pontiffs historical
visit to Cuba. 2006 Castro announces a temporary transfer of power
to his brother, Raul Castro. 2008 Castor resigns as President
Timeline 1926-2008
Slide 5
Origins and nature of authoritarian and single party states
CUBA
Slide 6
Analyze the contributions of Castro to the success of the Cuban
revolution (Jan. 1959). Look at the part played by the historical,
political and economic circumstances against which he rose to
power.
Slide 7
Spanish-American war 1898 Cuba is free of Spanish control.
(help of the USA) Treaty of Paris 1898 between Spain and USA
granted the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines to
the USA in exchange for money. Spain also lost sovereignty over
Cuba. Placed under military occupation by the USA for 5 years. 1902
Republic of Cuba is declared but not sovereign. Platt Amendment
annexed to the Cuban constitution USA kept the right to intervene
in Cubas finances and foreign relations. Aimed at preventing the
influence of 3 rd party countries in Cuba, & guaranteed US
control of Cuban affairs. Used on several occasions by the USA to
intervene in Cuban affairs and protect US economic interests in the
island. Abolished in 1934 Snap Shot of Cuban independence
Slide 8
Monoculture economy (agricultural practice of producing or
growing on single crop over a larger area). American investments
played an important role in exploiting Cuban natural resources.
Sugar, tobacco, coffee, rice Sugar was the dominate resource.
Economic and social aspect
Slide 9
USA bought the majority of the sugar at prices above the
international market. In exchange Cuba was given preferential
access to USA products. Not an industrialized nation Relied on the
export of sugar to buy manufactured goods and oil. Development of
infrastructure (services and utility industries) required outside
investment provided by the USA Reciprocity treaty of 1902 provided
for a 20% tariff preference on Cuban exports (primarily sugar) to
US markets same as other independent nations. Cuban duties on
imports from the USA were reduced by between 20 & 40 %
depending on the product. Economically tied to the USA
Slide 10
Had a better standard of living than other regions in Central
America. Living conditions for workers were poor. Wages were low
Housing was limited Access to health and education not available to
all Running water and electricity limited in rural areas.
Illiteracy was the norm (50% or greater in rural areas). Seasonal
work for many workers Land ownership and sugar mill controlled by
upper class and foreign companies (USA)
Slide 11
Independence to revolution Series of governments ----corruption
---limited economic success and solving social inequalities 1934
general Fulgencio Batista control the nation 1940 elected president
of Cuba until 1944 1944- 1952 return to democracy c/w corruption
--- inflation and unemployment Political Aspects
Slide 12
Batista returns in march 1952 --- overthrows Carlos Socarras
--- suspends the constitution and rules as a dictator. Political
corruption at all levels of Gov. Economic problems worsen Social
and political unrest develop Shift to repression to maintain
control Rule of Fulgencio Batista (1952-59)
Slide 13
Decline in price of sugar --- major cause of economic issues
--- remember monoculture economy deterioration of the terms of
trade --- relationship between the price of exports and imports ---
cost more to import than it did export Un-able to develop
industries to substitute its imports Rise in cost of imports ---
inflation due to shortages. Oil prices rise --- affecting
transportation / mills / unemployment (17%) by late 50s Low
wages
Slide 14
Intensified --- economic and social Rural Poorly housed and
under-educated did not support the regime Urban Affected by
economic problems inflation & unemployment Students demanded
freedom and democracy Uppers class also affected --- loosing
purchasing power & businesses affected by international
economic uncertainly Opposition lacked organization Opposition to
Batista
Slide 15
Political parties did not offer a genuine alternative Authentic
Party and Orthodox Party two main parties before the revolution.
Communist represented by the Popular Socialist Party (PSP) Rise of
opposition to Batista
Slide 16
1934 Platform Socialist and nationalist elements Defended the
rights of workers ---- represented by trade unions Nationalism was
expressed in the motto Cuba for Cubans Party leaders Ramon Grau San
Martin & Carlos Prio Socarras Authentic Party (Partido
Autentico)
Slide 17
Split of the Authentic Party Founded in1948 Eduardo Chibas
Motto Integrity against Money Important role --- denunciation of
corruption Goals to end Gov. corruption and nationalize US- owned
companies Castro was a member of the party until he formed his own
organization, the 26 of July Movement. Orthodox Party (Cuban
Peoples Party)
Slide 18
Founded 1925 Was never able to garner support banned from
participating in elections PSP (Popular Socialist Party)
Slide 19
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36 The untold story
complete 1:31:41
Slide 20
Law student and member of the Orthodox Party --- 1942 Popular
in the party, outstanding orator / memory / athlete 1952 planned to
run for a seat in congress due to Batistas coup against Socarras
1953 Castro attempts to depose of Batista
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkNm7BWcOl0http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkNm7BWcOl0
0 t0 11.5 min.
Slide 21
Moncada assault 1953 Granma expedition 1956 Campaign in the
Sierra Maestra (1956-1959) Role played by Castro in revolution 3
stages
Slide 22
140 men mostly from the Orthodox Party Lead by Fidel, Raul,
Abel Santamaria Attached the Moncada Barracks --- near Santiago de
Cuba --- why? Large supplies of ammunition Region with the greatest
social unrest Distance from Havana Popular celebration in the
streets hoped for fewer soldiers in the garrison. Moncada assault
1953 Birth the of 26 th of July Movement
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1FQTzY#t=36stop
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1FQTzY#t=36stop 11.5 min.
Slide 23
Unsuccessful close to of the rebels were kill / captured &
tortured to death including, Abel Santamaria. Castro and Raul
escaped --- later caught --- receive 15 years show strength of Gov.
and crush opposition to regime. Castro defends himself --- separate
room ---- attendance restricted --- speech --- History will absolve
me--- lime juice --- letters--- printed and disturbed in 1954
Batista show trials
Slide 24
Marked the foundation of Castro's political movement, 26 th of
July Rebels became known as the Generation of the Centenary
Batistas excesses in repression, torture and persecution affected
his image. Castro & his revolutionaries become martyrs of the
dictatorship Consequences of the Moncada assault
Slide 25
1954 Batista holds elections to legitimize his rule. Castro in
jail, PSP banned, no effective opposition was available. Used the
election to claim he had been rightfully chosen by the people. To
appear democratic he allowed some concession -- - political parties
could re-group Political prisoners released ---- Fidel and
Raul---exiled to Mexico
Slide 26
Unrest continues in rural areas, towns, and cities --- grow in
size and violence --- armed. Variety of organization evolve in the
rural areas promoting rural insurgence, sabotaging proper across
the island and organizing guerrilla groups. Communications, food
delivery (towns & cities), sabotage against sugar mills, oil
refineries and railroads, caused drop in production. Demands for
elections --- ignored
Slide 27
Return of Castro December 2 nd 1956 the launch to power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1FQTzY#t=36 Start at 11 min.
Untold Story Stop at 17:30
Slide 28
Fidel and Raul return from exile Granma --- old yacht --- 80
rebels and weapons. Poor weather, communications, engines,
overloaded ---- 2 days late. Landing party & Urban arm of the
July 26 th movement --- no contact. Spotted by Gov. forces ---
Castro lands in a swamp -- - leave supplies and ammunition behind
---- ambushed --- 12 of 80 survive and hide in the Sierra Maestra
to regroup and emerge as the Rebel Army. The Granma expedition
(1956)
Slide 29
Increase in support by the people came in the form of food,
shelter, supplies, to joining the rebels. Reasons for support
Different type of army from Batistas Final Stage in Rise In the
Sierra Maestra mountains (1956- 1955)
Slide 30
Slide 31
Elements of program that attracted support Batista Suppression
Fear Terror Corruption Stealing Kept In the dark 26 th of July
Movement Did not steal from peasants, always paid for food given to
them. Respected women Put their medical doctors in the villages
Taught them to read and write. Helped with household chores.
Explained what they were fighting for. Explained what type of
society they hoped to have.
Slide 32
Promises an end to the ownership of large estates by a small
sector of society, or companies Committed themselves to a fairer
distribution of the land. Made use of the radio to spread news and
events. Created the Rebel Radio broadcast from the territory of
Free Cuba in the Sierra Most important element of the new program
Agrarian Reform
Slide 33
People turned into the radio station because the offered more
reliable news. Castro addressed the people Style that was easy to
understand Found out what government censorship was hiding from
them about the fight against the Batista Progress in the mountains
encouraged urban support for the revolution Workers joined the
revolution underground. Printed leaflets Planted homemade bombs to
blow up government installations, railways, public buildings.
Sabotaged telephone lines, electricity stations and gas services.
Assassinated those they believed to be enemies of the
revolution.
Slide 34
To reduce support for rebels and dissidents imprisoned Torture
Innocent men and women were imprisoned Ordered peasants to evacuate
whole areas of the countryside, those who stayed considered
traitors. Rebels hide in jungle planation's set on fire causing
peasants to loose their crops. Backfired wanted to frighten the
citizens --- drawn to rebels and hated the government To what
extent did Batista contribute to the success of the
revolution?
Slide 35
Launched a major attack in July 1958 Campaigned failed Fear of
the guerrilla forces and of being isolated in the mountains from
relief. Deserted in massive numbers or surrendered without a fight.
Weapons and equipment --- used by the rebels
Slide 36
1958 election --- similar to 1954 was fixed to win Outcome
disappointed those that still supported the possibility of a
democratic solution to the conflict. Violent actions and fixed
elections spurred opposition from the USA and resulted in an arms
embargo by the US Gov. in March 1958 US position complicated
Batistas access to weapons and ammunitions Demoralizing effect on
the army
Slide 37
USA proposed Batista capitulate to a caretaker government,
which the US Gov. could give military and diplomatic support to
prevent Fidel from gaining power. US feared Castro might turn to
communism
Slide 38
Camilo, Raul, Che lead campaigns in other provinces. By January
1 1959 Batista unable to gain support and fighting the rebels fled
Cuba Army refused to fight --- ceasefire established --- Castro
entered Havana and established a provisional government. Start at
17:30 optional Triumph of the revolution
Slide 39
Charisma Charismatic leadership --- authority comes from the
fact that the leader is set apart from the rest of the people
because of his exceptional personal qualities or his exemplary
actions which inspire loyalty among his followers. Represented the
needs and aspirations in a vision of the future for the people
Charismatic figures represent the potential for rejecting an old
order, creating a attractive future possibilities for the
people.
Slide 40
This section explains how and why Fidel Castro moved from being
a member of the provisional government to becoming the undisputed
leader of Cuba Section III The rule of Fidel Castro
Slide 41
Removed people associated with Batista Consolidated the power
of the provisional Gov. Launched reforms to show that the
revolution lived up to tis promises and gain support Exploited the
idea that Cuba was threatened by the USA and appealed to the
peoples sense of nationalism Consolidation of power (1956
1962)
Slide 42
Batista supporters were Properties confiscated when they went
to trial Imprisoned Executed or given long prison sentences Short
trials --- non conformist to standards of justice Criticized by
Cubans and the US government for not offering human rights
guarantees to the prisoners. Rational those that believed that
justice had not been done were told that the revolution was
endangered by these people and that immediate justice was more
necessary than a fair trial. Removed people associated with
Batista
Slide 43
Provisional government makeup members of all political parties
left and right. January 1959 Real authority was in the hands of
Fidel Daily speeches appealed to the masses Walked the streets and
travelled across the country. Face to face --- spend an afternoon
fixing tractors or working in the cane fields, doing common house
chores, fixing household appliances. Social justice Economic
security Political freedom Consolidated revolution 1959-1962
Slide 44
6 weeks after the provisional government took control Castro
stepped in as the Prime Minister. His appointment allowed the
revolution to be quicker. July 1959 Cuban President Urrutia
resigned --- opposed to the increasing influence of communist in
the government and Castros refusal to hold elections. Replaced by
Osvaldo Dorticos --- until the 1976 constitution was passed.
Slide 45
By 1961 Castro's reforms transformed the country into a
communist state. Changes in the organization of the political
party. Organizations that had helped in the revolution were unified
under the Integrated Revolutionary Organizations (ORI). --- Formed
by the 26 th of July Movement --- Castro was the leader. The party
underwent different names --- United Part of the Socialist
Revolution of Cuba --- 1965 renamed Cuban Communist Party (PCCP)
Remains the only officially authorize party in Cuba and ahs ruled
since 1965 --- other political parties cannot participate in
elections.
Slide 46
PCC news paper called Granma Youth branch (Young Communists
League) Childrens organizations (Jose Marti Pioneers)
Slide 47
Huber Matos one of the leaders in the 26 th of July Movement
Teacher Orthodox Party member Leading role in the Sierra Maestra
taking of Santiago de Cuba Appointed commander of the army Express
opposition to the radicalization of the revolution ---refusal of
Fidel to set a date for an election Arrested by Castro --- 20 years
in prison. Released in 1979 fled to Miami --- became voice of the
Cuban dissidence and published his memoirs, How the Night Came
Others who were close to Fidel disappeared but there this no
confirmation on how they died --- still considered to be accidents.
Opposition to Castros shift left
Slide 48
Promises: Work for the unemployed Land for rural workers
Improved working conditions for the urban workers Middle class able
to become professionals Women able to work in equal conditions to
men Reforms of 1959-1962
Slide 49
Redistribution of land more equitable Agriculture more
efficient Less dependent of sugar Restricted the land that could be
owned; established limits --- more than the limit --- expropriated
and you received bonds as compensation. Expropriated land was set
up in cooperatives Nationalized the land in foreign hands and ended
both Cuban and foreign ownership of large estates, while still
allowing private medium- small sized farms ---(reforms in 1963
& 68 would target these). Agrarian Reform Act
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1FQTzY#t=36 Start at 25 min.
stop at 31;00
Slide 50
Increase in wages and reduction of rents Created support among
lower class Antagonized the middle and upper class. Foreign-owned
companies began to face waves of strikes as workers took advantage
of more favourable political situations to demand increased wages
and improved working conditions. Companies that refused threatened
with expropriation, accused of representing countries that
supported the Batista government.
Slide 51
Import taxes were imposed on luxury goods Making these goods
more expensive aimed at reducing their imports so that less money
was spent on them by Cubans. Money raised with taxes the government
hoped to invest in industrialization and diversification of the
economy. This affected the USA which saw its sales to Cuba decrease
by as much as 35%.
Slide 52
Opposed by property owners, criticisms by the press, USA
government and US corporations had little effect. Refused to accept
compensation in Cuban bonds. Consider cutting sugar quotas in
retaliation
Slide 53
Allowed Castro to consolidate his position in government Less
focus on Castro and more interest in getting rid of the remnant's
of the Batista regime and old political, social, and economic
system Effects of reforms
Slide 54
Those that opposed the controls did not cause issues because
they were controlled by local governments and they were allowed to
leave the country if they wished. 1959-1962 250, 000 people left
Cuba A lot of these were middle class and educated. Essentially he
was not giving them a platform to stand on
Slide 55
USA pressured other nations to stop any economic aid to Cuba
Cuba retaliated by expropriating all US property in Cuba USA
(Eisenhower) cancelled the sugar quota Cuba confiscated all US
banks in Cuba The USA established an economic embargo that is still
in effect today USA opposition was less successful
Slide 56
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36 Start at 31 min.
stop at 38:20
Slide 57
Cuba getting financial aid from Soviets Kennedy approved a plan
to stop the growth of Marxism is Latin America. Cuban exiles ---
Guatemala & Nicaragua Hope to spark a spontaneous uprising
Unsuccessful Castor emerges more powerful than before Give what
Castor needed to demand increasing commitment to the revolution: a
visible enemy. Validated Fidels leadership and the need to remain
united Tempted the USSR to pursue stronger economic ties and a
military presence within Cuba. Bay of Pigs Invasion 1961 72
hrs.
Slide 58
Oct. 1962 USA confronted the Soviets over placement creation of
missile silos nuclear weapons in Cuba. Brinkmanship 13 days of
negotiation Soviets removed the missiles and dismantled the silos
in Cuba USA removed nuclear missiles in Turkey and promise that it
would not invade Cuba. Fidel concerned that the Soviets will not
defend the island. Cuban Missile Crisis 1962
Slide 59
By 1962 Fidel had rid himself of all liberals in the government
and revolts in the provinces. No one in the revolution was in a
position to dispute his authority. He became more radical as he
accepted Soviet assistance and make it public that he was a
Marxist- Leninist.
Slide 60
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52efX1 FQTzY#t=36 57:00 to
1:00:00
Slide 61
Created an economical independent and industrialised nation US
embargo, economic dependence on the Soviets and the subsequent
collapse of the USSR in 1991 helped shape Fidels economic policies
Responses by the government to internal and international
challenges were sometime contradictory.
Slide 62
Important role in the design of Cuban economy. President of the
National Bank of Cuba Favored a centrally planned economy Emphasis
on moral incentives and self-sacrifice Work for the ideals and
values of the revolution not personal gain Social emulation
(competition among workers as a method to achieve the set target)
Party membership and state recognition amongst others. Equal pay No
overtime Create a new conscious and a new man Influence of Che
Guevara (Moral incentives and voluntarism)
Slide 63
Changed the national currency Rent is cities was abolished 1963
2 nd Agrarian Law --- reduced the amount of land that could be
owned by a single person or entity to prevent the existence of rich
peasants. After 1963 the state owned 70% of the land, the rest was
small farms which were expropriated in 1968
Slide 64
Lack of specialized personnel and technicians Assessment of the
problems and the implementation of solutions was limits Moral
incentives were not efficient in raising productivity levels Poor
productivity, workmanship and absenteeism. Farmers in collective
farms were forced to sell their product to the state a low price
--- no motivation to produce more than for subsistence living.
Sugar production dropped and diversification did not compensate for
this. Forced to buy machinery from the USSR and Eastern Europe and
increase its debt. Trapped again in trade relations of subsidized
sugar in exchange for goods. 1964 intensive sugar production
resumes Obstacles to economic productivity
Slide 65
Revolutionary Offensive a move further towards a communist
state and removal of the last vestiges of capitalism. Che Guevaras
new man idea of work was a social duty was taken literally. All
remaining privately owned enterprises (family stores, restaurants
grocery stores, street vendor) were expropriated. Farmers markets
were eliminated All forms of self-employment were banned --- seen
as pursuing individual aims. The Revolutionary Offensive 1968
Slide 66
Did not achieve increased productivity Create administrative
chaos The return to policy of moral incentives meant high levels of
absenteeism and vagrancy. Out-come
Slide 67
Response to the revolutionary offensive Castro wants to break
the old record of sugar production --- ten million ton output of
1970. Obtain enough money to pay off Cuban debts to the USSR Sell
surplus sugar, make investments towards economic diversification
--- liberating campaign The year of the Ten Million 1970
Slide 68
1970 became the year the Year of the Ten Million Zafra (sugar
season) became another battle for Cuban pride --- demonstrate it
could reach its goals. A crusade that mobilized all citizens.
Volunteerism --- little success --- implemented militarization of
labor --- organized & disciplined
Slide 69
Students, conscripts, law breakers, emigrants all worked in the
fields Military occupied the sugar regions --- put in charge of
sugar mills Castro used propaganda posters --- showing him working
in the fields. Bars, theatres were closed Christmas and New Years
celebrations banned
Slide 70
8.5 million tons were harvested July 26 1970 Castro admitted
they didnt meet the goal The economy was in trouble --- machines
had been over-used; other crops had suffered, other economic areas
-- forestry, fishing production dropped. Labor exhausted and
sceptical --- soldiers feel their status diminished --- from
defender to labour Results
Slide 71
Economic a political blow Offered to resign Abandonment of
Guevaras ideas of solidarity, voluntarism and self-sacrifice
Acceptance of greater economic dependency on the USSR Farmers
market reinstated State-owned companies given more autonomy to make
daily decisions Material incentives --- pay for overtime By end on
the 1970s brought new levels of recession USSR cuts price paid for
sugar Unemployment, debt and polices that limited consumption led
to increased discontent --- 125,000 emigrate to the USA.
Slide 72
Castro blames the liberal changes in the 70s were responsible
for the economic problems Advocates a return to the values of
solidarity and voluntarism under the Rectification Campaign Aim to
rectify errors and negative tendencies linked to the relation of
communist principles. Farmers markets banned Bonuses and extra pay
abolished Self-employment discouraged Farm cooperatives emphasised
Percentage of land managed by independent farmers dropped to 2 %
Labour discipline was enforced Workers lost many union rights The
Rectification Campaign 1986
Slide 73
Poor Productivity fell Absenteeism increased Reduced supplies
of milks, oil, textiles, and sugar lead to increases in prices.
Parallel of black markets reappeared for product that were rationed
or difficult to obtain. Transportation & electricity rates
increased Living standards dropped Worst was yet to come!!!!!
results
Slide 74
Collapse of the USSR --- 1991 30 years USSR was central to
Cuban economy & social development. Soviet technicians left
Cuba abandoning 100s of projects. Subsidized goods, oil, access to
international loans (underwritten by the USSR) lost. The Special
Period 1991 1:02:00 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkNm7BWcOl0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkNm7BWcOl0
Slide 75
Castro announces Cuba has entered a special period in peacetime
Increased levels of rationing ---- basic goods disappeared from the
market. Soviet oil gone save energy Limited working hours Imposed
blackouts Restricted public transportation Actions by Castro
Slide 76
A larger % of stated-owned farms run by worker-managed
cooperatives --- to increase productivity Efforts to attract
capital and diversify economy Cuba open to international business
Invited to join in development of tourism, mining, and energy ---
tourism saw positive growth. 1993 Cubans could buy and sell US
dollars in an attempt to attract dollars from relatives overseas
--- had a positive impact on the demand for goods and contributed
to the reactivation of the economy. Farmers and handcraft markets
were allowed Self-employment & private businesses allowed State
aimed at saving money by reducing some subsidies and increasing
taxes. 1994 Cuba was on the rebound some signs of economic recovery
The reliance on one market --- sugar was being replaced by tourism
New policies implemented
Slide 77
Slide 78
Status was different that other Latin American countries 1940
constitution granted equality before the law: women could not be
discriminated against at work, receive equal pay for equal work,
allowed vote (1934), study, work and sue for divorce
Pre-revolutionary Cuba remained in many ways a traditional society
occupations were limited --- teaching, nursing --- still
discrimination upper class preferred women to raise the family
Status of women
Slide 79
Women rights were given out of necessity not morals ---
modernization & economic growth required them to active in the
workforce. To problems a.discrimination at work / access to jobs
b.compatible role in the workforce and the household.
Slide 80
a.Legislation passed reinforcing the equal rights of men and
women Offered jobs training at tech. and professional levels
Entered jobs that were excusive to males construction,
biotechnology, driving & fixing tractors, increase number of
daycare centres for working mothers Women expected to leave family
and homes for long periods and work in Agricultural Legions
Pressure to be efficient, participate in political life, volunteer
to serve the revolution, fulfill responsibilities as wives,
mothers, housewives. Very patriarchal society --- men refused to
share responsibilities' or live with potentially economically
independent women. 1970 Family Code stipulated equality of sexes at
home, education, & work men not supportive were seen as
exploiting women Women traveled into the rural areas giving
vaccinations, do social work, design new textbooks to use in the
revolution, seamstresses, cooks Many women gave up work ---
families left Cuba
Slide 81
Policies seemed to be geared towards increasing the workforce
than gender equality. 600,000 plus Cubans --- middle-class
professionals left in the 1960s Women filled many of these jobs
Played an impt role in literacy and health campaigns. Could not
achieve the numbers levels of participation they hoped for. Few
women entered the higher levels of Gov. leading one to question the
motives of Castro --- equality or economic growth. assessment
Slide 82
Pre-revolutionary years varied significantly across the country
More restricted in rural areas Limited by economic status One of
the highest illiteracy rates in Latin America 24 % among children
under 10 Access to university limited to those that could afford it
or lived close by. Education
Slide 83
Slogan If you do not know, then learn; if you know, then teach
1961 declared The Year of Education Promised to end illiteracy
within the year Two problems --- lack of schools --- lack of
teachers Military barracks used for schools Rural schools increase
1959 1962 more schools than previous 58 yrs. Under Castro
Slide 84
To increase teachers Programs developed 271,000 new teachers
Sent across the country taught where ever they could --- homes,
vacant buildings, lived in rural families homes. Wore olive-green
uniforms to be recognized Literate people expected to be literacy
volunteers in free time. Education
Slide 85
The Year of Education another patriotic campaign By 1962
illiteracy had dropped to 4% Very successful helped to promoting
the revolution
Slide 86
1.Fight illiteracy among the poor 2.Make the middle-class
literate youth familiarize themselves with the living conditions
and hardships of the poor, and act in response to the values of the
revolution --- service and self-sacrifice. Opened their eyes to the
other Cuba Thousands of volunteers emerged transformed Illiterate
peasants learnt what the revolution could do for them & were
given another reason to support it Two aims of the literacy
campaign
Slide 87
Shift towards communism in 1961 affected education in other
ways All private schools were nationalized Boarding schools opened
Large scholarship programmes for gifted and committed students ---
participants were selected by the government --- decided the
subject areas and specialty areas Free time had to be used in
intellectually valuable choices --- volunteer work Teacher who
didnt support the revolution lost their jobs --- students acted as
spies Teachers who supported the revolution were rewarded with
training in the USSR and Easter Europe --- communist values were
reinforced. New textbooks were adopted and teaching focused on the
history of the revolution and the lives of heroes Libraries purged
of inappropriate material The tasks of the schools is the
ideological formation of the revolutionaries, and then, by means of
the revolutionaries, the ideological formation of the rest of the
people
Slide 88
Pre-revolutionary culture had been influenced by foreign
nations --- nationalist values had not been established. Castro
founded organizations that were designed to develop nationalist
& revolutionary values. --- they ensured the arts reflected and
encouraged these values. End to foreign influence --- translate all
labels and wrappers in English terms into Spanish Revolutionary
words --- struggle, battle, victory and enemy were used to explain
different events from the campaign against illiteracy to the
harvest season. Visual images of the ideal citizen where based on
revolutionary heroes of the Spanish War and the Batista. National
Ballet, Cuban Institute of Arts and Cinema were created in 1959 ---
2 years later the Union of Artists and Writers of Cuba was formed
--- declaration stated the writer must contribute to the revolution
through his work and this involves conceiving of literature as a
mans of combat, a weapon against weaknesses an the problems that,
directly or indirectly, could hinder this advance. Arts
Slide 89
1961 a short film documenting Afro-Cubans dancing and enjoying
themselves was considered decadent --- counterrevolutionary ---
censored PM censorship angered many of the artists & writers
--- feared Castro would be dictating the content of their work ---
he created the Congress of Cuban Writers and Artists. Castro gave a
speech --- Words to the intellectuals that became an essential
document in the study of the history of arts in the revolution
Objective was to enforce revolutionary discipline and mobilize
support. Defined the responsibilities of artist in times of
revolution when Cuba was being threatened. Intellectuals' were no
longer free to create --- they were the service of the revolution.
Arts became the propaganda medium to promote the goals of the
state. Revolutionary events and issues that evolved required an
increase in the control of the intellectuals and artists. The PM
affair and Words to intellectuals
Slide 90
Conflict between the writers and Gov. broke out over the work
of a poet --- Heberto Padilla --- 1968 received an award for his
poems by the writers union --- some critical of the revolution ---
arrested and Jailed in 1971 Governments artists and intellectuals
intervene making him a political icon which forced Castro to
release him only after he was forced to give a prepared confession
at a show trial an enemy of the revolution, accused his wife and
friends of being counter-revolutionaries became know as the grey
years --- afraid to write anything that could be considered as
counter-revolutionary Only way to get their work read was to
smuggle it out of the country. Event divided the artists and
intellectuals along party lines. Some who had been supporters of
the revolution became oppositional The Padilla affair and the grey
years 1971
Slide 91
Catholicism 1959 revolution spit the church Supporters
Questioned the shift left Concern about influence by Americans and
Spanish After the Bay of Pigs all religious education took place in
churches --- limited the spreading of ideas 1976 constitution
stated It is illegal and punishable by law to oppose ones faith or
religious belief to the Revolution, education or the fulfilment of
the duty to work, defend the homeland with arms, show reverence for
its symbols and other duties established by the constitution 1998
Pope John Paul II visits & denounces communism --- lack of
politcal freedom and criticized the USA for its economic embargo
Communist party allows religious people to join --- church and
state not allowed religious instruction is schools still does not
exist. Religious groups and Minorities
Slide 92
1:13 - End
Slide 93
1959 Batists dictatorship overthrown Promise of free elections
--- 1976 first elections Predominately communist Focuses on the
ideals of Marx, Engels, & Lenin Established the importance of
the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) in the organization of the
nation. 1976 Constitution
Slide 94
First elections only allowed the PCC to campaign and all
nominees where chosen by the party. Under the new constitution
Fidel became the head of state, head of the Government, President
of the Executive Committee, First Secretary of the Central
Committee and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. Some
discussion was allowed at the local levels related to crime and
family issues but freedom of association still does not exist
today. Responsible for creating a huge bureaucracy that still
exists. 1976 Constitution
Slide 95
1960 creation of the CDR --- committees for the Defence of the
Revoltuion Demonstrates how Castro treaded opposition Responsible
social projects and report on counter-revolutionary activities
Active in workplace, residential buildings An important tool in
government surveillance. 1/3 of the population worked for the CDR
Peer surveillance was very high Use of force was evident 1965 -69
25,000 young men sent to work camps Military service was compulsory
opposes sent to camps Children of political prisoners, youth
imitating Americans, homosexuals and political dissenters sent to
camps Closed in 1968 after domestic and international pressure A
distinguishing feature of Castro's treatment of opposition is that
at various points in the revolution he allowed and encourage the
exodus of citizens from Cuba --- helped to consolidate power
between 1959 - 1962 Treatment of opposition
Slide 96
Economic and political challenges to Castro leadership Buss of
Cubans crash the gates of the embassy asking for asylum --- Cuban
guard shot --- Gov. demands they be returned --- Peruvian embassy
refuse to hand them over --- Gov. withdraws from embassy --- 10,000
Cubans force themselves inside the embassy demanding asylum. Castro
uses the event as a political tool to gain support --- Let them all
go! media and supporters called scum, rallies demanding they be
returned Castro stated anyone who wanted to leave was free to leave
the island could. 125,000 left --- Mariel boatlift --- hundreds of
boats from Florida Consisted of opponents of the revolution, people
wanting to re-unite with family and 1000s of prisoners and mentally
ill forced to board arriving boats Demonstrates 2 things Level of
discontent was growing questioned the level of support for Castro
and legitimacy of the revolution Readiness to commit to the values
promoted by the moral incentives and self-sacrifice 1978 exiles
allowed to visit relatives in Cuba exposed 1000s to exaggerated
stories of success and accomplishments ---- contributed to
discontent 1980 migrations was more economic than political
Peruvian Embassy 1980 and Mariel boat lift
Slide 97
Fidel Castro An assessment
Slide 98
Why was he able to stay in power so long 52 years Feb. 16 1959
April 19 2011 longest reigning dictator in history A communist or a
social reformer? A murderous tyrant or a visionary savior Castro
withstood Mafia hit men, CIA-backed invasions, the collapse of
world communism (he outlived the Soviet Union), He outlasted 10
U.S. administrations (four-decade U.S. economic embargo that tried,
with varying degrees of enthusiasm, to topple him), the mortal
hostility of millions of his own countrymen, and outstayed dozens
of other dictators. Fidel Castro An assessment
Slide 99
February 19 2008 Castro states he will not seek re-election
Combination of factors The revolution was the continuation of the
war for Cuban independence Events Sierra Maestra campaign Defeat
the USA Uniting nationalist feelings Promotion of social, economic,
political programs Charisma Political skills Ability to turn
conflict and setbacks into success
Slide 100
http://www.havanacubatravel.com/news.html
http://www.havanacubatravel.com/news.html
http://www.miamiherald.com/multimedia/news/ castro/timeline.html
http://www.miamiherald.com/multimedia/news/ castro/timeline.html
Influence around the world 48:00 stop at 58