The History of Cuba (The Greenwood Histories of the Modern Nations)

By Clifford L. Staten

Book Overview

Cuba's history is told in eight chronological chapters, from its earliest days as a Spanish colony, through its wars for independence and the U.S. occupation in the 20th century, Cuba's various reform movements, Batista, the Cold War, and the so-called Special Period, when Cuba faced the crisis of the downfall of the Soviet Union. Also included are a timeline, biographies of key players, and a bibliographic essay. With special emphasis on the 20th century, the Castro era, and Cuban-U.S. relations, this is the most recent, accessible, and current history of Cuba available, making it the perfect starting point for anyone seeking a concise and readable history of Cuba.

Cuba is much more than cigars, classic automobiles, and Castro. This remarkable nation has had a long history of relations with larger political powers that were drawn to the island because of its valuable resources and strategic location. Ties between Cuba and the United States have been strong since the mid-19th century, and the theme of U.S. dominance over the island and its people is a primary historical perspective.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0313316902
• ISBN13: 9780313316906
• Release Date: March 2003
• Publisher: Greenwood
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 1.0" x 6.1"

Customer Reviews

Short and Sweet

I walked into this book knowing virtually nothing about Cuba, and this book did an excellent job of providing a short overview of modern Cuba. The history begins with the war for independence from Spain, and proceeds through all of the revolutionary movements, through to Castro's takeover, the Soviet relationship with Cuba, and Castro's changing policies. I found it very enlightening, a quick read, and well worth an afternoon! I would have given it a higher rating if it had more unique information, but it keeps the readers interest, and gives a reasonable overview of the politics and economics of the country.