192-Part Guide To The World: Cuba
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Language: Spanish.
Size: 42,804 square miles, making it the largest Caribbean island and just smaller than England.
Population: Approximately 11 million.
National dish: Chicken, rice and beans are the staple foods. Morros y cristianos, literally Moors and Christians, is a basic dish comprising rice and beans.
Best monument: Havana is an incredible Spanish colonial city, boasting splendid churches and mansions. Undoubtedly its highlight is the Plaza de la Revolución, with its mural to Che Guevara.
Most famous citizen: More than 40 years after he gained power, President Fidel Castro continues to lead his country. Before embracing rebellion and his political calling, he was educated at a Jesuit school and studied law at Havana University.
Best moment in history: On New Year's Day in 1959 the dictator Fulgencio Batista fled the country and the revolutionary aims of the Communist guerrillas, led by Castro and Che Guevara, became reality.
Worst moment in history: The failed assault on the army's base at Moncada in July 1953 was the nadir of the revolutionary movement's fortunes. Many rebels were killed in the confrontation and the survivors, including Castro, were captured and imprisoned.
Essential accessory: Not all things American are detested in Cuba - US currency is coveted, so make sure you bring your dollars.
What not to do: Do not question the policies or sanity of El Jefe, Fidel Castro.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments