Question

The history of Cuba in the last 50 years is noted for its revolution, which brought socialist principles and destroyed the capitalist infrastructure, including the wealth base of its richer inhabitants. From the readings on Cuban history and contemporary society—1) what can be interpreted as the positive social impacts of the revolution on Cuban society (e.g. via race, class, gender); 2) how have the Cuban films we have seen promote the positive impacts of the socialist revolution; and 3) would you say these portrayals are honest reflections of Cuban society or propaganda of the State? Use evidence to back up your assertions.

Answer 1

Early revolution era the Cuban economy was significantly controlled by US companies, the Cuban population was experiencing high difference based on income, most of its children were out of schools and Cuba was the holiday destination of rich Americans.

After the socialist revolution, Cuban government increased its expenditure into public interests like health, education, and agriculture which made this country more equal in per capita income and social services. After the revolution, citizens were not required to pay personal income taxes and the government subsidized healthcare and education for all citizens.

The Cuban media and film industry was controlled by the government which helps the government to promote the positive impact of socialist revolution, the Cuban society strongly supported the revolution and government works.

If we go deep into the revolution era, we can see that the reality and showcase were different, the government of Cuba prepared a propaganda rather than real public interests.

The government subsidize social sectors which made a good impact but increased the debt over its citizens but the government never showed reality to its citizens. The government also controlled political will and democratic values.

In my opinion, the revolution set a propaganda rather than the real scenario, they never showed the impact of subsidy and it makes the people more dependent on government.

References- CIA world factbook, Cuba, from the communist to co-operative, by Stephen Wilkinson, A viewer’s guide to Cuba’s economic reforms by Philip and Peter, 2012.

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