Christopher Columbus discovered Cuba during his first voyage on October 28, 1492. Spain ruled Cuba for 388 years. In 1762 Britain took control of Cuba for one year after which country came under control of Spain. The cultural and politically activities in United States left great impact on Cuban culture and politics because of its geographic closeness.
Cuba declared independence from Spain on October 10, 1868, finishes slavery system in 1886 and declared a republic on May 20, 1902. The Cuban Revolution started on January1, 1959. Fidel Castro became President of Cuba in February 1959, and has held effective power in the country until temporarily handing it over to his brother, Raul Castro, for medical reasons in July 2006.
According to the CIA World Factbook, Cuba is 51% mulatto (mixed black and white), 37% white, 11% black, and 1% Chinese. DNA studies throughout the Antilles region have suggested that the contribution of indigenous neo-Taíno Nations to the local populations may be more significant than formerly believed.
The cultural activities in Cuba are mix of cultures from United States, Spain and Africa. Cuban music is very rich and is the most commonly known expression of culture. Popular Cuban music of all styles has been enjoyed and praised widely across the world.
The most popular sports in Cuba is baseball, other sports include basketball, volleyball and athletics. Cuba has won high gold medal tallies in amateur boxing at International level.
Cuban cuisines are amalgamation of Caribbean and Spanish cuisines. The typical meal could consist of plantains, black beans and rice, ropa vieja (shredded beef), Cuban bread, pork with onions, and tropical fruits. A traditional Cuban meal would not be served in courses; rather all food items would be served at the same time.
