Cuba

Cuba is an island nation in the Caribbean, located south of the United States and east of the Yucatán Peninsula. It includes the main island and several smaller ones, including Isla de la Juventud. The terrain features plains and the Sierra Maestra in a tropical climate. The capital and largest city is Havana. The population is about 11 million, and Spanish is the official language.

Originally inhabited by the Taíno, Cuba came under Spanish rule after 1492 and remained a colony for centuries. It gained formal independence in 1902, though the United States retained influence for years. The 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro established a one-party socialist state aligned with the Soviet bloc, transforming the economy. Since the 1990s, Cuba has pursued gradual reforms while maintaining one-party rule.

Cuba is a one-party socialist republic led by the Communist Party of Cuba. The National Assembly elects the president, who serves as head of state and, since 2019, head of government. The prime minister oversees the cabinet, while the Council of State and Council of Ministers implement policy. The system is centralized and state-controlled.

The economy relies on services, tourism, nickel, and pharmaceuticals within a largely planned framework. Reforms since the 2010s have allowed limited private enterprise and foreign investment. The U.S. embargo, restricted credit, and fuel shortages have constrained growth, though reforms and external trade offer opportunities. Remittances and medical diplomacy contribute to the balance of payments.

Cuban culture blends African, European, and Caribbean influences, with strong traditions in music and dance, including son, rumba, and salsa. Notable writers and filmmakers have emerged; the country is known for cigars, classic cars, and baseball. Cuba has high literacy and health indicators for the region, and preserves UNESCO sites and a vibrant cultural life.