Before the Revolution
What were the political conditions like in Cuba before 1959?
Cuba was ruled by Fulgencio Batista, a dictator who controlled the government with corruption and repression.
Who were Fidel Castro and Che Guevara?
Castro was a Cuban lawyer and revolutionary leader; Che Guevara was an Argentine doctor who fought with him.
What was the Bay of Pigs invasion?
It was a failed U.S.-backed attack by Cuban exiles in 1961 to overthrow Castro.
How did the Cuban Revolution affect Latin America?
It inspired other leftist movements and worried U.S.-supported governments.
Describe the economic situation in Cuba before the Revolution.
The economy depended on sugar exports and U.S. businesses, while most Cubans lived in poverty.
What did Fidel Castro and Che Guevara believe in?
They believed in ending social inequality, opposing U.S. control, and creating a socialist government.
Why did the Bay of Pigs invasion fail?
The plan was poorly organized, the Cuban army was strong, and locals didn’t join the invasion.
Why are there so many Cubans living in Miami today?
Many fled after the Revolution to escape communism and start new lives in the U.S.
How were social conditions for ordinary Cubans before 1959?
There was deep inequality — rich landowners and U.S. companies had power, while peasants and workers had low wages.
How did Fidel Castro and his followers take power in Cuba?
They led a guerrilla war from the mountains and overthrew Batista in 1959.
Why did the USSR place missiles in Cuba?
To protect Cuba from another U.S. attack and gain power in the Cold War.
How did the Revolution change Cuba’s relationship with the U.S.?
They became enemies; the U.S. broke diplomatic ties and imposed sanctions.
What were two major U.S. interests in Cuba before the Revolution?
U.S. companies owned sugar plantations and casinos, and the U.S. government wanted to keep Cuba under its influence.
How would you describe the process of the Revolution?
It was a long, violent struggle led by small groups of rebels who gained popular support.
How did the U.S. react when it discovered the missiles?
The U.S. created a naval blockade and demanded the missiles be removed.
What long-term political changes did the Revolution bring to Cuba?
Cuba became a one-party communist state led by Fidel Castro.
Which social classes supported the revolution, and why?
Poor farmers, students, and workers supported it because they wanted land reform, education, and an end to corruption.
How did the U.S. and Soviet Union react to the Revolution at first?
The U.S. was suspicious and cut ties; the USSR supported Cuba with aid and became its main ally.
What was the overall impact of these events on U.S.-Cuba relations?
Relations became hostile, and the U.S. placed a long-term trade embargo on Cuba.
How is the Cuban Revolution remembered today in Latin America?
Some see it as a symbol of independence; others see it as the start of dictatorship and repression.