Publisher's Synopsis
Transfer of Cuban colony to the US
On January 1, 1899, the Spanish colony in Cuba was officially handed over to the United States, marking the end of 386 years of Spanish rule. This transfer of power was witnessed by General Adolfo Jiménez Castellanos, appointed by Spain for this purpose. The transition from Spanish to American control was formalized with the lowering of the Spanish flag.
The Cuban Liberation Army had long fought for independence, facing immense challenges and losses, particularly during the brutal rule of Captain General Valeriano Weyler. The shift of dominion from Spain to the US deprived the Cubans of an imminent victory that seemed within reach after the defeat of the Spanish forces in Las Tunas in 1897.
The US policy to take over Cuba capitalized on its military superiority and the weakening of the Spanish forces. Despite the pivotal role played by Cuban troops, like Major General Calixto García, they were denied entry into Santiago de Cuba after the Spanish surrender. The subsequent years saw Cuba transition into an American neocolony, with economic and political dominance leading to corrupt governments and brutal dictatorships.
The first Batista regime came into power in 1933 after a series of coups following the fall of General Gerardo Machado. Fulgencio Batista emerged as a key figure, initially appearing as a champion of the people but gradually consolidating power through ruthless tactics. This marked the beginning of a dark era characterized by corruption, violence, and foreign domination, setting the stage for the tumultuous period that followed.
The cycle of corrupt governments continued, with leaders like Dr. Ramón Grau San Martín and Dr. Carlos Prío Socarrás failing to deliver on promised reforms, succumbing to greed and aligning with oppressive forces. The government also turned a blind eye to criminal activities, further eroding trust and stability in the country.
The second Batista regime, starting in 1952, saw the return of Fulgencio Batista to power through a military coup. This move effectively ended a brief period of relative peace, sparking renewed resistance and rebellion. The rise of revolutionary movements, led by figures like Dr. Fidel Castro, ultimately culminated in the overthrow of Batista's dictatorship on January 1, 1959, marking a new chapter in Cuban history.
