Authoritarian states - Castro
Emergence methods: Propaganda quotes
"Convince U.S. policymakers the Revolution is not communist based." Herbert L. Matthews "Matthew's articles had a de-legitimizing effect on the Batista regime." Myra Immell "Castro presented to Matthews a force that appeared to be well organized. Nothing could have been further from the truth. " Myra Immell "When we began to broadcast from our own transmitter, the existence of our troops and their fighting determination became known throughout the Republic; our links began to become more extensive and complicated, even reaching Havana and Camagüey in the west, where we had important supply centers, and Santiago in the east." Castro
Consolidation: Use of Force quotes
"Cuban government refused to recognize the legitimacy of Cuban human rights organizations, alternative political parties, independent labor unions, or a free press." "Human Rights Watch said thousands were jailed in abysmal prisons, thousands more were harassed and intimidated and that entire generations were denied political freedoms, a system based on abuses which felt increasingly anachronistic." "Many of the abusive tactics developed during his time in power - including surveillance, beatings, arbitrary detention, and public acts of repudiation - are still used by the Cuban government." -Human Rights Watch "Let's be honest: this was a regime which when it came to power lined up its opponents and shot them." -Christopher Sabatimi Castro also was merciless in his treatment of rebels and adopted a "comb the brush, elbow to elbow" method to completely eradicate the rebels. The "two objectives [of the UMAP camps] are "facilitating free labor for the state" and 'punishing young people who refuse to join communist organizations.'" According to Abel Sierra Madero, this institution has to be understood as part of a project of "social engineering" tailored for political and social control.
Emergence methods: Role of leaders quotes
"Fidel Castro himself was the most powerful political resource of the revolution" Perez. "He had an exceptional ability to impress upon his followers the magnitude of their mission" "Castro was able to give the Guajiros hope, and the Guajiros gave Castro the time and support he needed for success." Myra Immell
Emergence methods: Persuasion and coercion quotes
"The benefit of seeing words transformed into actions served to steel the resolve of the Guajiros to support the rebels." Myra Immell
Aims and results of policies: Socio-cultural quotes
'No where was the quest for an egalitarian society more fully attained than in the area of education' - Perez 'The revolution achieved one of its most dramatic achievements: the elimination of malnutrition' - Perez
Emergence methods: Use of force quotes
On the guerrilla campaign: "A guerilla must move amongst the people as a fish swims in the sea." (Mao Zedong) Batista's high command 'a demoralized gaggle of corrupt officers without combat experience'
Consolidation: Use of Force
The installation of Military Units to Aid Production or UMAPs made sure that marginalised groups such as homosexuals, religious minorities, or political enemies stayed away from the public eye. Of approximately 35,000 internees, 507 ended up in psychiatric wards, 72 died from torture, and 180 committed suicide. Escambray rebellion was put down by the Castro government (Escambray Rebellion (1959-65) Support from the CIA in the form of supplies and training Some of Castro's reforms were unpopular with wealthier peasants and the middle class who were relatively well-off. Discontent amongst local farmers towards the expropriation and redistribution of their private farmland, opposed collectivisation Batista loyalists Anti-communists Ex-guerrilla members who became disillusioned with Castro, as they supported the ideas of democracy and free speech 177 outlaw groups William Alexander Morgan (A supporter of Castro and a distinguished one at that). He however did not believe in communism and therefore joined the rebels. Castro dealt with the rebellion by abusing his greater amount of human and military resources, 250,000 men Bay Of Pigs April 1961 (1,400 American trained Cuban exiles defeated by Castro) They were easily defeated in three days. Huge embarrassment for USA. Led to the final wave of repressions - the government moved against anyone suspected of opposition to the regime, including priests, foreigners, and ordinary men and women, in and out of government. By the end of April, an estimated 100,000 were imprisoned. Prisons filled with political enemies. By obliterating the invasion (Bay of Pigs) allowed the Cuban government to show that they were in a position of strength. Over 100,000 of Batista's supporters, were imprisoned as political prisoners 'revolutionary justice'. Arresting priests and other forms of political opposition. Using their newfound power to force retrials, arrest and remove property from Bastianos amongst other things allowed the government to remove any chance of rebellion.
Aims and results of policies: Political quotes
'The party set policy, but refrained from interfering in the daily aspects of administration.' Perez In 92 Raul Castro responds "those who turn against us can expert revolutionary justice" Castro's presence was incredibly powerful: "The regime enjoys a credibility and margin of confidence" according to UN human rights report in 1996.
Aims and results of policies: Women quotes
'The results in terms of both the representation of women in the paid labour force and the transformation in patterns of life, were impressive.' Perez
Consolidation: Success/failure of foreign policy
1960 allies with the Soviet bloc. Soviets would purchase 425,000 tons of Cuban sugar, and 1 million tons in each of the following four years. Soviets offered $100 million in the form of credits, technical assistance and crude and refined petroleum. The North American threat to the sugar quota lost potency. March 1960 - Eisenhower agrees to the training of Cuban exiles by CIA to attempt to overthrow Castro. May 1960 - Cuba nationalised foreign refineries. Us retaliates. On July 5th, cuts sugar imports by 700,000 tones the full quota for that year. The sugar imports quota was thereafter fixed to zero. Two days later the Soviet Union agrees to buy 700,000 tones that year, and China 500,000 over the next five years. August 5th - Cuba expropriates additional US property - banks, 36 sugar mills and petroleum assets. October 13th - US responds with economic embargo on Cuba, a ban on all US exports except medicines and foodstuffs. Cuba reacts the same day and nationalises all that's left. January 1961 - USA cuts diplomatic relations completely. The Cuban missile crisis By 28th October 1962 it is confirmed that the missiles have been removed The UN supervised the removal of missiles, but Cuba was allowed to remain armed and communist. USSR and Cuba become powerful allies Khrushchev seen as a responsible peacemaker, and Kennedy emerges with a good reputation. Castro's power was somewhat undermined as Khrushchev made a deal without him. Relations between USSR and US improve, direct hotline phone from the white house to the Kremlin established. Anti-communist sentiment in US decreases, Cuba seen as less of a threat. People who wanted to invade cuba recognise that it is too much of a risk, communism deemed only an inconvenience. Cuba remained a useful ally in 'Uncle Sam's Backyard' The survival of the revolution was all but guaranteed when the US, as part of the negotiations to remove missiles from Cuba, agreed not to invade the island. The Special period: USA pushed for sanctions which prevented countries from trading with Cuba Torricelli act of 1992 Helms-Burton act in 1996 Siezed ships that had been docked in Cuba for the past 6 months. Foreign policy extremely harmful. Long-term failure of foreign policy from an economic standpoint rather than a political one. Cuba had to pursue new markets within the enemies of the USA: China, North Korea, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Iran Tensions with the US reduced as the Cold War faded into memory. In 1998 flights between Miami and Havana resumed. By 2000 US businesses looked to Cuba as a profitable market. 2001, Cuba imports 30 mil dollars in agricultural product from the US.
Aims and results of policies: Minorities
1960s LGBT+ population was suppressed and many were forced to emigrate to Miami "Inappropriate clothing" and "extravagant hairstyles" were seen as markers of homosexuality Soviet Union saw homosexuality as the result of decadent capitalism, a view Castro soon adopted Gay men were confined to UMAP labour camps (mistreatment, shaved heads, dusk-to-dawn work), with rehabilitation being the ultimate goal Camps weren't created with homosexuals in mind, but they were targeted 1970s Camps continued despite the UMAP program ending in 1968 Homophobia was institutionalized in 1971 Jobs lost, party members thrown out, students expelled, contact with youth prohibited Same-sex relationships were decriminalized in 1979 1980s Homosexuals were encouraged to leave during the Mariel Boatlift of 1980 Homosexuality defined as a sexual orientation and homophobia deemed unacceptable Police received orders not to harass LGBT+ people Successes: Homosexuals systematically persecuted during the 1960s and 1970s Forced migration of thousands of homosexuals Public humiliation of gay writers and demoting them to being janitors Not as blatant of human rights violations as in Nazi Germany Failures Conversion efforts at camps amounted to nothing UMAP program ending in 1968 Lesbianism completely ignored Castro admitting later on that his treatment of homosexuals was wrong
Aims and results of policies: Political
1970s and 80s - new mechanisms for widening participation in decision-making beyond the Partido Comunista de Cuba (PCC) Politically - Constitution of 1976 - Presidential system of government. PCC only party allowed to rule. But, the constitution enshrined democratisation as well. Poder popular (people's power) established the mechanism for the popular election of municipal assemblies, which in turn elected the provincial assemblies and chose the deputies that made up the National Assembly, which took up legislative policy. For the 1981-86 five-year term, the National Assembly had 499 deputies - one for every 20,000 people. Trade unions revitalised. Pursuit of egalitarianism faltering in the 1970s and 80s In the 1960s egalitarian policies had been followed zealously for political (keep the people happy) and ideological (socialism) reasons. Especially from 1959-61. With the restoration of material incentive after 1970 the momentum towards egalitarianism faltered. Non-wage policies including free health-care, education and social security reduced the significance of income distribution. The special period beginning in 1991: In 1991 Castro speaks about "Cuba contra todo" which increased his popularity by blaming the world and capitalism for the problems. Renewed ideas of conciencia. Comparisons made to the Batista era when foreign investment was reinstated "Cuba for Cubans". In the Mid 90s around 50 dissent groups emerged George Bush election increased tensions again in 2001 Fidel Castro permanently retires in 2008. Still! Political system never collapses. Castro became a symbol for Cuban national pride, most dissent directed towards the USA.
Emergence methods: Use of force
26th of July movement 1953: Following the failure of the Partido Ortodoxo, attempted to overthrow Batista with 150 men by attacking Moncada military barracks Was imprisoned, but his speech at the trial (said to have lasted 5 hours) inspired many cubans to be sympathetic towards his cause. "History will absolve me" Sentenced to 15 years, served 2. Cuban revolution Guerrilla tactics worked, Batista lost many troops to the opposing army due to fatigue. Battle of Santa Clara in December 1958 was the turning point and final battle, during which Batista was forced to flee. The battle of La Plata - the Fidelistas attacked an isolated army outpost. The attack only lasted 1 hour and was a classic guerilla assault. Castro posed as an army colonel and gathered data on the outpost and soldiers from Osorio - the drunken estate manager. He divided 22 guerillas into 4 divisions and attacked in the dark - they fired volleys from all 4 sides and set several houses on fire.
Consolidation: Treatment of opposition
Batistiano bank accounts were frozen Old political parties abolished All candidates who participated in in 1954 and 1958 elections were banned 44 of Batista's pilots in prison Elections were postponed in 1959 Liberals and Moderates forced out of govt PSP (Cuban Communist Party) takes control Army and Ministry of Labour taken over by PSP Opposition newspapers and radio shut down. In January 1960 Avante closed and in February El Mundo was seized. In March the most important television network in Havana. Imprisonment for political reasons was legal The installation of Military Units to Aid Production or UMAPs made sure that marginalised groups such as homosexuals, religious minorities, or political enemies stayed away from the public eye Committee for Defense of the Revolution had 800,000 members by the end of 1960 By April 1961, 100,000 political prisoners in jail/concentration camps Strength in healthcare services, educational services helped in 'appeasing' the Cuban public, so Cubans themselves may be unwilling to stage a protest,dissent Harsh treatment of the escambray rebellion. Notably, over 100 members of the Concilio Cubano - an opposition group with a wide-range of policies - were arrested in 1996.
Consolidation: Charismatic leadership quotes
Castro proclaiming himself as "Marxist-Leninist to the day I die" and calling his revolution a "clearly socialist revolution" in Nov 1961 "No sober person in Latin America wants to adopt the Cuban system. But wherever he went in Latin America he received a raving ovation, because he stood up to the United States, told us where to go, and got away with it." "Has the discipline of a warrior, the intellect of a chess master, the obsessive mania of a paranoiac and the willfulness of an infant." - Anne Louise Bardach
Aims and results of policies: Socio-cultural
Goals: ensure political stability and encourage economic growth and fulfill ideology Education: Pre-revolution: largely for Cubans of means and urban Cubans. 24% illiteracy rate in aged 10 and up. 1961 declared the 'Year of Education' , a literacy campaign to eliminate illiteracy Third Grade Campaign - evening classes for adults at local work centers 'Battle of the Sixth Grade' Results: The % of people completing sixth grade increased from 20 in 1953 to 32 in 1970 and 61 in 1981; 1962 - literacy 96%; full time school enrollment 800,000 in 1958-9 to 3.3 million in 1982-3. University Centers increased from 3 in 1959 to 40 in the 1980s Change in emphasis of higher education - programs relevant to national economy subsidised and prioritised. Overcome dependence of foreign experts. In universities, enrollment in the humanities fell by 50 percent, in the social sciences by 72 percent, in law by 93 percent. Enrollments in education increased by 32 percent, in natural sciences by 51 percent, in medicine by 34 percent, in engineering and architecture by 82 percent, and in agricultural sciences by 128 percent Between 1902 and 1959 3000 architects and civil and mechanical engineers had graduated. By the mid 1970s: 1,500 were graduating every year. Health and nutrition: By 1969 the doctor/population ratio at pre-revolutionary level (1 per 1,000). "Spreading out" of medical facilities and (equal distribution of food), a massive increase in the percentage of budget allocated to rural hospitals Between 1959 and 1976, total number of hospitals increased from 58 to 257 Huge progress from 1970 onwards: doctor to people ratio; hospital beds; free dental care; urban-rural imbalance addressed; hospitals increased; number of trained professionals; declining mortality rate and rising life expectancy; malaria free (1973); infant mortality declined. During 1980s an estimated 2 million Cubans received at least one hot meal at work canteens, schools cafeterias and hospitals. By 1980 the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation estimated the Cuban daily per capita calorie intake at 2,705 considerably above Latin American average. Introduction of a rationing system that aimed to guarantee every Cuban at least 1,900 calories a day Special programmes for pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with specific diet requirements. Cuba experienced an increased population growth from 1.9% annual growth in the 1950s to 3% in the 1960s Life expectancy increased from 57 in 1950s to 74 in the 1980s Yet, Cuba was able to treat victims of radiation poisoning, demonstrating their power. Also able to receive students from Mozambique Failures: Took until 1969 to increase number of trained doctors back to pre-brain-drain numbers Shortage of pharmaceutical supplies due to trade embargo with the US During the early 1960s, the number of infectious diseases increased (including polio, TB, measles, typhoid, syphilis and hepatitis). General death rates increased 6.3 per 1,000 habitants in 1957 to 7.3 in 1963 - and infant mortality rose from 32.3 to 39.6 per 1,000 babies
Emergence conditions: Impact of War
Brutal rule of the Spanish in the early 1900s Wiped out indigenous people Imported slaves from Africa through the encomienda system Bankrupted poor spanish immigrants (criollos) Spanish-american war 1898 Cuba joined the US in their war against Spain. Crossed over with the Cuban war of independence from Spain. "Frustrated revolution" were not able to truly be independent. Platt amendment creates Plattist Cuba US controls cuban trade, effectively controlling their economy by making decisions for them. Only able to trade with the US. Becomes a neo-colonial client state. Plattist Cuba: US troops sent in as direct intervention which prevented political activity In 1906-1908 and 1912-1922 Deadlock of conflict Castro's Revolutionary war: Classic model of guerilla warfare Phase 1: Organisation and preparation - building cells, recruiting menbers, infiltrating organisations, spreading propaganda, stockpiling weapons. Phase 2: Terrorism, guerrila warfare - kidnappings, terrorist attacks, sabotage, guerrilla raids, ambushes Phase 3: Conventional warfare - Regular warfare to capture key geographical and political objectives.
Emergence methods: Role of leaders
Castro Wealthy background, extremely well-educated. Went to law school where he became more politically active Joined the Partido Ortodoxo in 1948 Extremely passionate, in 1947 travelled to the Dominican Republic to join an expedition attempting the overthrow of the dictator Rafael Trujillo, it failed Famous speech at his trial in 1953, where he was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Made him famous throughout Cuba. Key grievances: Inequeality, unemployment, people had no land Corruption Money not well handled Lack of democracy Vision for Cuba Redistribution of wealth to promote equality Equity and egalitarianism Social justice Humanism (what he called his ideology) Opportunities for people without them Democracy Multi-racial with equality between genders Anti-capitalism Eventually, a global revolution. Castro as a revolutionary leader: Strict organization: Killed traitor Eutimio Guerra for giving away information Harsh training: 15 hour marches Castro nicknamed 'El caballo' Resourceful, used whatever weapons they could find. Required a weapon to join the revolution Built their own factories There were also internal disagreements within the 26th of July Movement, but due to Castro's influence, they eventually decided to focus on guerilla warfare in the mountains with strikes in the city only supporting that end. Treating peasants well, paying for food and so on. Aligned the revolution with the old forces and drew up the 'Sierra Maestra Manifesto' on 12 July 1957 - gave them legitimacy and respectability The US believed that they could establish a strong relationship between Castro and themselves. Therefore they were more open to Castro taking power Che Guevara: Major Larry Bockman of the united states called his tactics "brilliant" Tactical brilliance: Entry of the revolutionaires from Mexico was done via boat to the Sierra Maestra By December 1957, they controlled 2000 square miles in the sierra maestra, ending their nomadic period. The operation Verano (offensive by Batista to Castro in 1958) failed and left Batista troops demoralised, as they tried to surround Castro and Che Guevara's troops but they were ambushed, notably thanks to the environment of the Sierra Maestra Inspired great respect. Started with an estimated force of 12-25 and eventually beat an army of 12,000.
Consolidation: Dissemination of propaganda
Castro and the rebels used the show trials to enhance and maintain the spirit of revolution and to convince the masses that Batista and his government had to be punished. The idea of "humanism" stressed by Castro made him a heroic figure rather than a threat of communism. National campaigns to eradicate illiteracy showed his care and concern for the people. Use of Rebel Radio continued Havana ranked near the bottom of Reporters Without Borders' press freedom index Was used to disseminate messages and also the image of Castro was designed to embody the revolution. Controlled the media: Granma: Cuba's propaganda newspaper Prensa Latina: worldwide propaganda and intelligence collection Radio Havana: international radio coverage ICAP: to gain international support in anticipation of an American invasion Casa de las Americas : control of intellectualism in Cuba, Castro awarded literary awards to poets, playwrights and conducted festivals where 'politically slant' pieces of writing were delivered The white star of the Cuban flag appeared everywhere, along with the number 26, which marks the date of the July attack on the Moncada barracks, the formal beginning of the revolution.' Propaganda was able to turn losses (The 10 Million Crop Campaign) into wins. Controlled and created mass communications and organisations. Eg. Civilian Militia, Federation of Cuban Women, Association of Young Rebels etc.. Religious symbols were banned, revolution symbols took over (all devotion was penetrated) The revolutionary romanticism surrounding Castro was likely what kept him in power for so long, even during the hardships of the Special Period
Consolidation: Success/failure of foreign policy quotes
Castro proclaiming himself as "Marxist-Leninist to the day I die" and calling his revolution a "clearly socialist revolution"
Emergence conditions: Economic factors
Cuba a 'Neocolonial client state' At the beginning of 1959 United States companies owned about 40 percent of the Cuban sugar lands—almost all the cattle ranches—90 percent of the mines and mineral concessions—80 percent of the utilities—practically all the oil industry—and supplied two-thirds of Cuba's imports. By the late 1950s, U.S. financial interests owned 90% of Cuban mines, 80% of its public utilities, 50% of its railways, 40% of its sugar production and 25% of its bank deposits—some $1 billion in total. In 1953, the average Cuban family only had an income of $6.00 a week, 15% to 20% of the labour force was chronically unemployed, and only a third of the homes had running water. 60% did not have toilets or refrigeration 12 to a room at times. Lots of unemployment and lack of education meant more people were willing to join the movement. 40% adults illiterate. In order for economic development, Cuba had to become independent from the USA, but the USA kept the country politically stable. During Batista's regime particularly, Cuba was exploited. Batista's brother-in-law controlled all 10,000 slot machines in Cuba, which contributed millions to the regime's bank account. The slot machines became synonymous with Batista's corruption. As the new hotels, nightclubs, and casinos opened, Batista collected his share of the profits. His take from the Lansky casinos was said to be 30%.
Consolidation: Treatment of opposition quotes
During the special period: "Those who turn against us can expect 'Revolutionary justice'." (Raul Castro)
Aims and results of policies: Economic
Early 1960s: reduce dependence on sugar exports and encourage industrialisation and diversification. Output of sugar dropped dramatically (6.7 million tones 1961, 4.8 million tones 1962, 3.8 million tones 1961). March 1962 government has to introduce food rationing for consumer goods of all types. Brain drain Of the 300 agronomists working in Cuba in 1959, 270 departed Half of all teachers emigrated Estimated total 85,000 professionals and technicians, 20,000 emigrated Senior medical faculty at University of Havana was reduced from 200 to 17 Disengagement from USA Most of the plants went paralysed as a result of inventory shortage. Transportation was significantly impacted as well. Lots of droughts due to the US's cloud-seeding and preventing rainfall Lack of food and sufficient resources massive issue with adapting to a new system of more international trade For example, tankers could not dock, inadequate storage facilities, not being able to read russian guides. - 5,000-ton shipment of soybean oil from China in 1961 created small crisis During Cuba's conversion to new spare parts, new machinery and new production techniques, large sectors of Cuban industry remained underutilized or idle altogether Sugar production once again promoted, and other tropical agricultural productions, coffee, tobacco. 1970 harvest produced a record crop (8.5 million tones), but not the target of 10 million. A powerful blow against the national spirit. The rest of the economy suffered hugely as all efforts were channelled into the 10 million ton target. Basic foodstuffs of every type - milk, vegetables, fruit, poultry, meat - were in short supply. 1.2 million workers from all sectors + 100,000 members from armed forces + 300,000 sugar crop workers were diverted to the "10 million toonn crop" goal. Quality of work was sacrificed to meet quantity, resulting in even worse production Transportation networks all geared towards sugar. Moral incentives ineffective over long periods of time. - 15% absenteeism in many industries. Form a new workers consciousness or Conciencia, Hombre Nuevo Re-introduction of material incentives in 70s Thirteenth Labour Congress in 1973 re-introduced material incentives. Over-time pay and maximum 44 hour work week, except in vital industries. Fixed quotas for output. Productivity related pay and incentives. In 1973, 100,000 TV sets were given to 'vanguard workers'. Consumer goods available again. 1974 - Castro announced allocation of $132 million for wage increases to managers and technical workers. Anti Loafing Act in 1971 - all males between 17 and 60 to perform productive labour. More than 100,000 new workers as a result. 'policy of prices' - fees restored for telephone services, local buses and day-care centres. Plans for the elimination of rents gone. No more talk of abolishing money. Health-care free, education and employment and old-age pensions remained. Rents 10% of income or less. A rise in wages meant little if there was nothing to buy so consumer good re-introduced. Support and subsidies from the USSR. And other socialist countries. Soviets: trade and aid. Between 1959 and 1970, exports to the Soviet Union increased from 12.9 million pesos to 529 million and imports went from 0 to 686 million pesos. Vital to the revolution's survival. Economic growth in 1970s and 80s Productivity expanded, exports increased. In 1974, Cuba recorded its first balance of payment surplus. Between 1971 and 1980 the economy grew at an estimated annual rate of 5.7%. Industrial activity grew: manufacture expanded 7% annually in the 1970s, the construction industry at 14% and capital goods industry at 16%. Reduced dependency on sugar. Sugar value of Cuban exports declined from 90% in 1975 to 65% in 1985. By 1983 the value of non sugar exports increased by 60%. Export to capitalist countries, but don't import from them. The gap in earnings was greater in the 1970s than in the late 1960s, but it was still lower than pre-1959 levels. Minimum wage 85 pesos, but maximum was 900 in the 1970s. Yet, overall from 60s-80s, a huge re-distribution had occurred... During the 1960s and 1970s - per capita income of the poorest 40% increased enormously between 1958 and 1978 (from $182-$865), while the richest 5% declined (from 5,947 to $3068). Special Period: Socialist Bloc had accounted for 85% of trade. 1990-1993 the economy shrunk by 40% Rationing and cutback introduced Scarce medical supplies In 1993 eggs disappeared as chickens could not be fed. 1995 Sugar hit a 50 year low Possession of the dollar was decriminalised Cuban exiles encouraged to come in with money Law 141 brought back private enterprise 1995 foreign investment act increased production of natural materials and tourism. Dollarisation: Tourists banned from using pesos to kick-start the economy. Black market went from 3 billion dollars worth in 1989 to 14.5 in 93. In 2002, 71 out of 156 sugar mills closed due to market crash
Emergence conditions: Weakness of the political system
History of dictatorship and leaders being American puppets. President Garcia Menocal was supported by the USA in a 1916 fraudulent election. First president Estrada Palma in 1902 was the only candidate, clearly a fraudulent election. Gerardo Machado was another example of a US puppet who was able to extend his tenure in 1928. Clearly people didn't like the political system: Machado was overthrown in 1933 by workers strikes (200,000), student protests and middle class agitation. San Martin's government (1933) only lasted four months. Brought down by striking workers who formed soviets in sugar mills that processed 25% of the harvest. No trust in the government by the people, the government became simply a way to generate profit. Batista's military dictatorship - stratocracy: Rule from 1934-1940 Ruled using military Brutally crushed strikes Extremely popular in Washington for allowing US carte blanche in Cuba but profoundly unpopular with Cubans for selling them out to foreigners. Was president from 1940-1944 US-backed dictator from 1952 to 1959 Kleptocracy - Extreme corruption. Government based on stealing. President Garcia Menocal in 1914 had 1 mil, by 1921 this had multiplied by fourty. Political system did not work, but an external force was required to make any changes, an armed insurrection. Sham democracy. Leader of the partido ortodoxo Chibas committed suicide when he was unable to win an election in 1948. Impacted Castro deeply. 1952 unable to gain a seat in parliament as Batista stages a military coup. Weakness of Batista against revolutionaries: Bad strategy - sent men into the mountains where they would be lost and easily surrounded. Many untrained recruits. Batista aligned himself with the US - alienating possible supporters, but later lost the support of the US, leaving him with no allies or resources Committed atrocities which lost him local popularity and US support. Economic embargo on 1958. May 1957 - Batista had 200 families evacuated from the Oriente and placed in concentration camps. Under nationwide condemnation, he was forced to rescind this action July 1957 - brutally beat 200 demonstrating women at a funeral, counterintuitively inciting support for revolutionaries Septmeber 1957 - Batista had a campaign of torture and murder of suspected revolutionaries including aerial bombing of the city of Cienfuegos - the government troops buried 200 wounded alive. August 1958 - Cuban Air Force, unable to distinguish between Fidelistas and the Cuban army, accidentally napalmed their own troops. By the end of 1948 Batista's generals are discussing peace with Castro.
Emergence conditions: Social division
History of discrimination against Cubans by the Spanish Encomienda slavery system Indigenous people wiped out by slavery and European diseases By the 20th Century 40% of Cuba's population was black, 30% white and 30% mixed race. Gang violence and corruption were incredibly prevalent. Classes were balanced so no one class had sufficient political power. Conflict occurred within classes so there wasn't any conflict between classes. Some elements of each class profited from the system while others didn't. Representatives of each class consulted in key decisions. Working class becoming much more active around the 1930s due to the transition from atomisation to proletarianisation Anti-colonial struggles and war Multi-racial Wage-labour needed on the farms Sugar, tobacco, construction, railroad and port workers The US opposes minimum wage 1930, and 1933 200,000 workers on strike and bring down Machado New close living quarters in cities and sugar mills, Bateyes (communities with workers) From the 1930s to 1959, the increasing corruption of law enforcement officers, politicians and business leaders created an ever festering resentment amongst ordinary Cubans. Large division between poor civilians and rich and powerful politicians. Cuban revolution had popular support.
Aims and results of policies: Minorities quotes
Homosexuals defined as "deviant and decadent" but not "weak and sick" "[W]e would never come to believe that a homosexual could embody the conditions and requirements of conduct that would enable us to consider him a true Revolutionary, a true Communist militant. A deviation of that nature clashes with the concept we have of what a militant Communist must be."- Fidel Castro, 1965 "A great injustice, a great injustice! If anyone is responsible, it's me.... We had so many and such terrible problems, problems of life or death. In those moments, I was not able to deal with that matter [of homosexuals]."- Fidel Castro, 2010
Consolidation: Nature and extent of opposition quotes
In the special period: "The regime enjoys, in broad sections of the populations, a credibility and a margin of confidence, far greater than observers have perceived." (Carl-John Groth, special rapporteur from the UN Human Rights Commission)
Emergence conditions: Impact of War quotes
Military governor in 1901: "There is little or no real independence left in Cuba under the Platt Amendment ... She is absolutely in our hands"
Emergence conditions: Weakness of the political system quotes
On Batista: "A U.S puppet whose strings needed cutting." (Che Guevara)
Emergence conditions: Economic factors quotes
On Cuba's weakness: "A neo-colonial client state" (Wolf) Military governor in 1901: "There is little or no real independence left in Cuba under the Platt Amendment ... She is absolutely in our hands" "Political deadlock inhibited economic growth, as there was a constant cycle of conflict and resolution." (Perez)
Aims and results of policies: Economic quotes
On the failure of the 70s and 80s: "Prevalence of absenteeism, low worker morale, low productivity and poor product quality meant a new course would be charted by the PCC (Partido Comunista de Cuba) for the 1970s and 1980s." (Perez) "The party set policy, but refrained from interfering in the daily aspects of administration." (Perez) "By the 1970s the stability and security of the revolution had been established." (Perez) "Cuba's free-fall back in time" (Perez)
Emergence methods: Ideology quotes
On the importance of nationalism: "Those without faith in their country are seven-month weaklings." (Jose Marti) Castro's nationalistic aims: "The country cannot continue begging on its knees for miracles from a few golden calves." (Castro, 1953) "Nations should live in an atmosphere of self-criticism and being proud of your roots" Marti. Nationalism: "Cuba for cubans". "Cuba libre" "No weapon, no force is capable of defeating a people who have decided to fight for their rights." Castro
Consolidation: Dissemination of propaganda quotes
On the importance of propaganda: "One of the most potent weapons in my foreign policy arsenal." (Castro) Use of the special period as a tool: "We are alone - all alone here - in this ocean of capitalism that surrounds us." (Castro) Castro in 1991 spoke of 'Cuba contra todos'
Consolidation: Use of legal methods quotes
On why no elections: "People want a revolution first and an election later." (Che Guevara)
Consolidation: Nature and extent of opposition
Opposition: Americans, disillusioned revolutionaries, Batistianos and anti-communists. Big brain drain was a form of passive opposition Some of Castro's reforms were unpopular with wealthier peasants and the middle class who were relatively well-off. Discontent amongst local farmers towards the expropriation and redistribution of their private farmland, opposed collectivisation Batista loyalists Anti-communists (for example local farmers whose lands were taken) Ex-guerrilla members who became disillusioned with Castro's ideas, as they supported the ideas of democracy and free speech which Castro was leaving behind. 177 outlaw groups William Alexander Morgan (A supporter of Castro and a distinguished one at that). He however did not believe in communism and therefore joined the rebels. USA as opposition: Started selling sugar quota to Russia and China In 1960, Eisenhower agrees to the training of Cuban exiles by the CIA as an attempt to overthrow Castro Aug 5th 1960 Castro takes most of US property - banks, farms, petroleum assets etc Economic embargo by the US in October and Cuba nationalises all that is left over January 1961 US cut all diplomatic relations Bay of Pigs in April 1961 Cuban exiles tried to take power, but it failed and Castro easily stamped it out
Emergence methods: Propaganda
PSYOP - Propaganda techniques - the manner of which he phrased his propaganda put the revolution as the liberator of the Cuban people. This can be seen in how many of Batista's troops switched sides; this could also be evidence of the army's lack of faith in Batista's ideology. Propaganda was used to gain support for the revolution in Santiago De Cuba; Radio Rebelde also helped with communication between rebels. Small newspaper "El Cubano Libre" Radio Rebelde "Rebel Radio" - Castro and Che Guevara's implementation of a cross country radio program and network in February 1958 allowed the easy spread of propaganda without physical presence Gave them popular support of the peasants - played on existing desires of peasants for greater economic equity; escape from poor conditions and standard of living.
Emergence methods: Persuasion and coercion
Persuasion: History will absolve me speech. Radio rebelde, use of propaganda In late 1957, with Castro's permission, Guevara began to build a small-scale infrastructure in his sector of the Sierra Maestra—El Hombrito. Guevara's action demonstrated to the local population the rebels' commitment to improving their lives. Castro's embrace of a soldier as he left his prison cell on the Isle of Pines was a symbol of his attempt to stop the military from participating in the violence directed by the Batista regime. In february 1958 Castro went further and not only denied the charges of being a communist, he attempted to link Batista with the communist movement. NY times interview. Coercion November 1958 - Batista held national elections in an attempt to regain political legitimacy. The Fidelistas encouraged and, in some cases, 'threatened' people not to vote. As a result, the electoral turnout was low, 30% and Batista's candidate Aguero 'won'. The election only succeeded in turning the remaining sector of Cuban society against Batista At La Plata, "psychological warfare for the first time in the Sierra war by installing loudspeakers that blared the national anthem, patriotic songs, and revolutionary exhortations at the exhausted Batista soldiers." The guerrilla itself, - 26th of July movement, The Battle of La Platta
Consolidation: Use of legal methods
Securing authority: Establishment of a provisional government. Made someone else President and Prime Minister, mixture of liberals, moderates and revolutionaries which was new. Batista's congress dissolved. All previous political parties abolished Batistiano's property confiscated and bank accounts frozen. All candidates who participated in elections 1954 and 1958 were banned. Growing influence of Castro: Moderates and liberals pushed aside by the 26th of July Movement. Revolutionary justice. 44 of Batista's pilots re-tried and imprisoned Throughout 1959 trade unions, the army (now led by Raul Castro) and Ministry of Labour taken over by PSP members as liberals and moderates forced out. By the end of the year anti-communism had become synonymous with counter-revolution. Public Trials Castro ruled by decree until 1976 when he placed himself in charge of the three most powerful positions in the government. The Secretary of the Cuban Communist, President of the Council of Ministers, and the President of the Council of State. May Day 1961 Castro announces the socialist character of the revolution. Egalitarian socio-economic policies: Around 1,500 decrees and laws the first nine months after the revolution Abolition of the past legal discrimination March 1959 - Urban Reform Law. 50% reduction of rents under $100 monthly, 40% for rents between $100 and $200, and 30% in rents over $200. Also built public housing on vacant lots. Reduction in telephone rates and electricity rates. Cane cutters' wages up 15%. Health reforms, unemployment relief and educational reforms. Reduction in luxury goods entering Cuba e.g. Cadillacs. Saved $70 million on foreign exchange. Afro-Cubans benefited from the end of legal discrimination against them as hotels, beeches, night clubs etc. were opened to them. National campaign to eradicate illiteracy launched for men and women. Agrarian Reform Law 1959 eliminated giant estates over 3,333 acres for sugar, rice and livestock, nationalising 1000s of acres of farm land. Compensation for seized land paid for in 20 year Cuban currency bonds Foreigners forbidden from owning agricultural land Land nationalised to be turned over to small private holders (max. 67 acres) and cooperatives Established the National Institute of Agrarian Reform (INRA) By late 1961, approximately 85% of the total productive value of Cuban industry was under state control. By 1961, every senior administrator of the 161 sugar mills was a revolutionary. 1960 Establishment of an authoritarian state. Control/creation of mass organisations: University Students' Federation Civilian militia - a popular armed force Federation of Cuban Women Committees for the Defense of the Revolution - to combat internal subversion and subterfuge. Membership of 800,000 by end of 1960 with committees organised block by block and at every factory and work center. Association of Young Rebels Reactions: Property owners annoyed at rent decreases. Some middle-class property owners especially hit. Landowners hated the Agrarian Reform Decree. USA getting annoyed - Telephone and Telegraph protested reduction in its rates, as did the Cuban Electric Company. US farms hit. 150,000 Cuban employees of North American enterprises lost their jobs Insurance services, real estate agencies, law firms, rent collectors, travel agencies, gambling casinos and brokers were abolished - middle-class lost their jobs. Brain drain: Unable to oppose the revolution, middle-class Cuban emigrated by the thousands: 62,000 in 1960, 67,000 in 1961, 66,000 in 1962.
Aims and results of policies: Women
Successes: 1961 "Patria o Muerte" Brigade Out of 4000 new administrators appointed by the Ministry of Domestic Commerce, 90% were women. First decade of mobilisation: year of 'decisive effort' to achieve 10 million ton crop led to mobilisation of women (200,000 volunteered to help) More than 56% who learnt to read and write in literacy campaigns were women; 1970, 73% had reached sixth grade level; Many went onto higher education. 256,000 women in labour force in 1953 to one million in 1985. Day care centres opened to support working women Many women acted as beneficiaries, making them essential to the success of the program and contributors in a number of aspects. 1974 The Family Code stipulated that both marriage partners possessed the right to pursue careers and improve education, and made divorce easier. 1970s and 1980s, women enters labour force in increase numbers: more than 30% of female labour force consisted of technicians, professionals, and managers. Access to contraception and abortions for women. Pregnant women receives 18 week paid leave absence Stores extended their business to allow women to shop after work Failures Patriarchal prejudices, (women expected to continue house work) causing 76% of women to drop out of workforce in the 1970s. Clash between work at home (casa) and outside of the home (calle). Struggle for equality hampered by Machista values; scarcity of state resources to lighten household burdens; all encompassing revolutionary ideology prevented development of autonomous feminist movement. Hiring discrimination remained and under-represented in supervisory and executive levels in both state enterprises and political positions. Maternity of working women Government efforts to ease pressure created by women working double shift Men refuse to share housework, and women unable to remain in workplace to attend assemblies which are vital for advancement.
Consolidation: Charismatic leadership
The Escambray Rebellion did not have any outstanding individual leaders to counteract their deficit in numbers, while Castro's revolution had two: himself and Che Guevara Represented defiance of western culture and capitalism Castro choosing to appear somewhat ideologically neutral in front of American audiences, only formally admitting he's a Communist after diplomatic ties with the US were severed completely Referring to himself as as 'humanist', avoiding overt communism Speaks of an end to dictatorship and democracy when being interviewed by US journalists. (Dodging the Ed Sullivan question regarding Communism) Touched politics and development around the world aided revolutionaries from Nicaragua to Angola Supported leftists; Chile's Salvador Allende and Grenada's Maurice Bishop Fomented unrest against hardline conservatives in Venezuela and Argentina and keeps allies in power in Mozambique Survived many assassination attempts. On Thanksgiving Day in 1999, a 5-year-old Cuban boy named Elian Gonzalez was found off the coast of Florida's shore, one of only three survivors of an ill-fated escape in which his mother and 10 others drowned. The subsequent custody battle between Elian's anti-Castro relatives in Miami and the Cuban government ultimately gave Castro a platform to bolster his image as protector of Cuban sovereignty and dignity in the face of Yankee aggression. After illness in 2006 Fidel still remained a public figure, appearing to boost support for the regime when needed.
Emergence conditions: Social division quotes
The desire for revolution: "The Cuban phenomenon of the 1950s was simply the reincarnation of the revolutionary process interrupted in the 1930s" (Federico Gil) "The nation's future, the solutions to its problems, cannot continue to depend on the selfish interests of a dozen big businessmen" (Castro 1953) The Guajiros can be described as "poor, illiterate black, white, and mulatto peasants" Myra Immell
The extent to which authoritarian control was achieved
Use of legal methods is significant because it illustrates control. Things like banning the use of the dollar Still the existence and growth of the black market during the special period illustrates how they did not have complete control. Social policies were somewhat anti-totalitarian: Education and literacy Creating jobs for women Private life left intact with racial equality Though there was an attempt to increase respect for women, this failed showing how little societal influence they had. Political control was extremely powerful, clamping down on political opposition Castro ruled by decree, Merged secretary, president and president of the council into one role. Much use of force, though he enjoyed widespread support, he did persecute many people, which makes him somewhat totalitarian. UMAP camps, though they were shut down in the 1950s. Less use of force in the later years, which suggests it was needed to consolidate but not maintain power necessarily. People fled the country. Did not control people coming in or out. Arguably, with opposition leaving, the population was much more supportive which makes the ideology more powerful.
Emergence methods: Ideology
Utopian socialism, popularised by Simon Bolivar and Jose Marti Anti-racism and pro-racial diversity Anti-imperialist and colonialist Pro-critical thinking Pro-nationalism Egalitarianism Populism Revolutionary Libertarianism Pan-americanism Populism, appeal to the masses The constant contact with people, mainly peasants living in bad conditions and effected by the military regime, made castro's ideology have more impact. Initially downplayed his extremism Against personalismo, personal leadership. Dictatorship purely for the personal gain of the dictator. Nationalism. Batista is profoundly unpopular for selling out to US