Cuba’s Role in American History, Part I
From Jefferson onwards, writes Arnold Whitridge, many nineteenth century United States leaders hoped that Cuba could be induced to “add itself to our confederation.”
Ever since Christopher Columbus sighted the New World from the poop of the Santa Maria, the island of Cuba, which he hopefully believed to be Japan, has played an important role in the unfolding of American history. Columbus brought back glowing tales of gold and spices, none of which he himself had seen but which his lieutenant, Diego de Velasquez, would soon be sending home.
To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.
Start my trial subscription now
If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.
Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.