Lexique

Welcome to the Lexique page of histoiredecuba.com. This comprehensive glossary is designed to help you navigate the rich and complex history of Cuba. Here, you will find definitions and explanations of key terms, events, and figures that have shaped Cuban history. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or simply a history enthusiast, this lexicon will serve as a valuable resource.

Key Historical Terms

Understanding the terminology is crucial for delving into Cuban history. Below are some of the most significant terms you will encounter:

Revolution: Refers to the Cuban Revolution of 1959, led by Fidel Castro, which resulted in the overthrow of the Batista regime.
Embargo: The United States' economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba, which began in 1960.
Bay of Pigs: The failed invasion of Cuba by Cuban exiles, supported by the U.S. government, in April 1961.
Mariel Boatlift: A mass emigration of Cubans to the United States in 1980.
Special Period: A time of economic crisis in Cuba following the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.

Significant Figures

Cuban history is marked by influential leaders and personalities. Here are some of the most notable figures:

Fidel Castro: The revolutionary leader who governed Cuba from 1959 to 2008.
Che Guevara: An Argentine Marxist revolutionary who played a key role in the Cuban Revolution.
José Martí: A national hero and important figure in Cuban literature and politics.
Fulgencio Batista: The Cuban military officer and politician who served as the country's leader before the revolution.
Raúl Castro: Fidel Castro's brother, who succeeded him as the President of Cuba.

Major Events

Cuba's history is punctuated by significant events that have shaped its current state. Here are some of the most critical events:

Ten Years' War (1868-1878): The first of three wars for Cuban independence from Spain.
Spanish-American War (1898): The conflict between the United States and Spain that ended Spanish colonial rule in the Americas and resulted in U.S. control over former Spanish territories, including Cuba.
Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): A 13-day confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union over Soviet ballistic missiles deployed in Cuba.
Elian Gonzalez Affair (1999-2000): A highly publicized custody battle involving a young Cuban boy found adrift off the coast of Florida.
Normalization of Relations (2014): The process initiated by Presidents Barack Obama and Raúl Castro to restore diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba.

Economic Terms

The Cuban economy has undergone significant transformations over the years. Here are some key economic terms:

Socialism: The political and economic system in Cuba, characterized by state ownership of the means of production.
Dual Currency System: The use of two official currencies in Cuba: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Convertible Peso (CUC).
Remittances: Money sent by Cubans living abroad to their families in Cuba, which is a significant source of income for many households.
Tourism: A major industry in Cuba, attracting millions of visitors annually and contributing significantly to the economy.
Agriculture: An important sector in Cuba, with sugar, tobacco, and coffee being key exports.

Political Terms

Cuba's political landscape is unique and complex. Here are some essential political terms:

Communist Party of Cuba (PCC): The ruling political party in Cuba, founded in 1965.
National Assembly of People's Power: The legislative body of Cuba, responsible for enacting laws and policies.
Central Committee: The highest decision-making body within the Communist Party of Cuba.
Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR): The military forces of Cuba, established after the revolution.
Non-Aligned Movement: An international organization of states that Cuba is a member of, which advocates for independence from major power blocs.

Cultural Terms

Cuban culture is rich and diverse, influenced by various traditions and histories. Here are some cultural terms:

Santería: An Afro-Cuban religion that combines elements of Yoruba mythology with Roman Catholicism.
Salsa: A popular dance and music genre that originated in Cuba.
Buena Vista Social Club: A group of Cuban musicians who gained international fame in the 1990s.
Literature: Cuban literature is renowned, with authors like José Martí and Alejo Carpentier making significant contributions.
Baseball: The most popular sport in Cuba, with a rich history and many famous players.

FAQ

Question	Answer
What is the significance of the Cuban Revolution?	The Cuban Revolution of 1959 was a pivotal event that led to the establishment of a socialist state in Cuba, significantly altering its political, economic, and social landscape.
How has the U.S. embargo affected Cuba?	The U.S. embargo has had a profound impact on Cuba's economy, limiting trade and access to goods, and contributing to economic hardships.
Who was José Martí?	José Martí was a Cuban national hero, poet, and revolutionary who played a crucial role in the fight for Cuban independence from Spain.
What is the Special Period?	The Special Period refers to a time of severe economic crisis in Cuba during the early 1990s, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, which had been a major economic supporter.
What role does tourism play in Cuba's economy?	Tourism is a vital industry in Cuba, attracting millions of visitors each year and providing a significant source of revenue for the country.