Cuba

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Slaves Unloading Ice in Cuba 1832

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Country in the Caribbean

Cuba (

[ˈku[unsupported input]a]), officially the Republic of Cuba (Spanish

República de Cuba

), is a country comprising the island of Cuba, as well as Isla de la Juventud and several minor archipelagos. Cuba is located in the northern Caribbean where the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean meet. It is south of both the U.S. state of Florida and the Bahamas, west of Haiti, and north of Jamaica.

History

The history of Cuba is marked by the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, who claimed the island for the Kingdom of Spain. The indigenous Taíno people were the original inhabitants of the island. Cuba remained a Spanish colony until the Spanish–American War of 1898, which resulted in Spanish withdrawal and the establishment of a U.S. military government. Cuba gained formal independence in 1902. In 1959, the Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro overthrew the government of Fulgencio Batista, establishing a socialist state. The revolution had significant impacts on the country's political, economic, and social structures.

Geography

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, with a diverse geography that includes mountains, plains, and coastal areas. The Sierra Maestra mountain range is located in the southeast, while the Viñales Valley in the west is known for its unique limestone formations.

Government and Politics

Cuba is a one-party state governed by the Communist Party of Cuba. The First Secretary is the most powerful position in the country, followed by the President and the Prime Minister. The National Assembly of People's Power is the legislative body.

Economy

Cuba has a mixed economy with state-controlled enterprises and limited private business. The main sectors include tourism, agriculture, and biotechnology. The country is known for its production of sugar, tobacco, and rum.

Demographics

Cuba has a population of over 11 million people, with a diverse ethnic composition that includes descendants of Spanish settlers, African slaves, and indigenous peoples. Spanish is the official language, and the majority of the population practices Roman Catholicism, although there are also communities of Protestants, Jews, and practitioners of Santería.

Culture

Cuban culture is a blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. The country is renowned for its music, particularly salsa, son cubano, and rumba. Cuban literature, art, and cinema have also gained international recognition.

Education and Health

Cuba has a highly regarded education system and a universal healthcare system. The country boasts one of the highest literacy rates in the world and has made significant contributions to medical research and public health.

See also

• Havana
• Cuban Revolution
• Fidel Castro
• Cuban cuisine
• Cuban music

References

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