AfroCuban

Afro-Cuban refers to people of African descent in Cuba and to cultural forms rooted in Africa within Cuban society. The term encompasses individuals with African ancestry, as well as communities and cultural expressions shaped by the African diaspora in Cuba.

Historically, Afro-Cubans descend from enslaved Africans brought to the island from West and Central Africa during the colonial era. Over centuries, Africans and their descendants contributed to Cuban culture through music, religion, language, cuisine, and social organization, while blending with Spanish, Indigenous, and other influences. This syncretism produced distinctive practices and artistic forms.

Afro-Cuban religious and cultural life includes traditions such as Regla de Ocha (Santería), Palo Monte, and Abakuá. Spiritual beliefs, ceremonial music, dance, and drum ensembles have had broad influence on Cuban arts and popular music.

Afro-Cuban rhythms and aesthetic ideas have shaped genres such as rumba and son cubano, and have influenced global genres including salsa. The Afro-Cubanismo movement of the early 20th century celebrated African heritage in Cuban literature and the arts, helping bring wider recognition to Afro-Cuban artists and themes.

Afro-Cubans are a significant part of Cuba's population and participate across all social and political spheres. Debates about race, color, and equality have long been part of Cuban public life, with ongoing discussions about representation and social inclusion.