Cuba

Cuba is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea and it has a total population of 11.2 million people (as of 2019). It is one of the world’s last remaining communist countries, with Fidel Castro as its leader from 1959 until his death in 2016. Cuba was inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years before Spanish colonization began in 1492. The nation declared independence from Spain on May 20th, 1902.

Economy and Politics
The economy of Cuba mostly relies on tourism and agricultural production such as sugarcane, tobacco, coffee beans, rice etc.. Since the collapse of Soviet Union which used to be Cuba’s main trading partner , Cuban government had to diversify their export market by introducing new products like cigars or rum . More recently , international companies have started investing in energy sector due to abundance oil reserves near gulf stream . Despite economic reforms introduced during Raul Castro era (2011-2018) , U.S embargo continues strangling cuban industry making everyday life hard for average citizens who lack access basic necessities like food or medicine . Moreover most political decisions are centralized under rule Communist Party despite gradual steps towards decentralization initiated after 2020 constitutional referendum that introduced direct elections at municipal level .

Culture
Cuban culture is heavily influenced by African heritage combined with European influences especially spanish language that constitute basis for national identity among cubans today . Music plays important role both traditional genres such Salsa Son Montuno Afro-Cubano Rhumba Reggaeton Timba but also more contemporary Hip Hop Rap being popular among younger generations while visual art flourished throughout history producing works renowned worldwide like painter Wifredo Lam sculptures Rita Longa Ernesto Fernandez Gonzalez architecture Ricardo Porro Francisco Prieto Cabrera Havana old city became UNESCO world Heritage Site 1997 encompassing colonial buildings cobbled streets plazas churches synagogues mosques theaters museums galleries monuments parks gardens squares markets restaurants cafes shops bars hotels nightclubs other places interest symbolizing unique blend different cultures styles customs religions beliefs coexisting peacefully since 16th century when first settlers arrived create what now we know beautiful vibrant city center caribbean soul always alive day night long colorful carnivals parades festivities taking place year round even midst current pandemic context celebrating best part about Cuban spirit resilience joy life dancing everywhere happiness contagious air everyone enjoy no matter age color nationality religion gender sexual orientation status socioeconomical background unifying factor embraces all forms diversity living harmoniously together promoting peace solidarity brotherhood sisterhood love harmony feeling true paradise care respect each other everybody welcome warm embrace sonrisas sones criollos ready receiving visitors open arms inviting them come share magical experience truly unforgettable lifetime