U.S. Embargo on Cuba

The United States Embargo against Cuba

Thesis Statement

“The U.S. embargo also imposed racial discrimination on Cuban in social and governmental policies”.

Introduction

The embargo of U.S. against Cuba is a commercial, economic and financial blockade which was partially imposed on Cuba in the year 1960. It was a result of nationalization of the properties of U.S. citizens and corporations by Cuban government. The embargo was strengthened to a complete blockade in 1962, and it was codified into law with written purpose of maintaining sanctions on Cuba till the Cuban government continues to reject the democratization and greater respect for human rights.

Discussion

Cuba- An Important Region for United States

Cuba was an important political, economic and military testing region for United States. In first 6 months, the three representative bodies of the independence movement were eliminated by the occupation forces, encouraging U.S. political and economic domination in Cuba. The U.S. government cut tariffs on the American goods exported to Cuba in 1898, but, the American government refused to do the same for Cuban exports. Moreover, it was mandatory for all governments to pay in U.S. dollars. The business of America flourished in Cuba and America obtained the control of Tobacco, mining and sugar industries.

Growth of Large U.S. Estates

By the year 1902, American companies gained 80% control of ore exports and a huge proportion of cigar and cigarette factories. Moreover, The American Government did not provide credit to small and medium agriculture industries and these industries were bankrupt. U.S. citizens and companies evicted several landowners. Likewise, the growth of large U.S. estates in Cuba rose. By the year 1905, around 10% of total land of Cuba was owned by American citizens. In the time of occupation, the American government improved health conditions, and made a compulsory education program for children of 4 to 16 years, this lead to increase in education of women of Cuba in 20th century.

Resistance Movements and Sovereignty of Cuba

Cubans from various social classes who disliked American imperialist policies established famous resistance movements. Afterwards, the American war secretary was compelled to declare that municipal elections would be held, and a constituent assembly would be established, and in the general elections, the government will be run by the Cubans. In 1900, the first municipal and constituent assembly elections were taken place, the assembly set down and passes first constitution which contained some democratic changes but, it refused the women right to vote. In spite of considerable democratic reforms, the independence was not given to Cuban. In 1901, the Platt amendment was added to the constitution, which weakened the sovereignty of Cuba. This amendment provided Americans a right to intervene in affairs of Cuba. Although several assembly members rejected the amendment and put forward many counter proposals to secure the sovereignty of Cuba, U.S. rejected to negotiate, and it was stated that if Cuba did not accept the amendment, The US would not take out occupations troops from the island.

U.S. Control over Core Economic Activities

During 1901-1959 the American government put forth significant power over ...