My Cuban-American Culture
MY “ LATIN” CULTURE
My name is Beatriz A. Aquino and I was born in Havana, Cuba. My parents emigrated to the beautiful state of Florida in May of 1967. I was a month short of turning 2 years old. I have never visited the country where I was born due to the political system practiced there but I do know its history customs and cultures. I consider myself a Cuban-American. What I mean by this is I was born a Cuban and am very proud to say that; however I was raised in the United States and therefore will always be an American. Throughout this paper I will guide you on a journey throughout the beautiful island that sits just
90 miles away. That land where I was born, CUBA. Cuba as it was known to many as the most beautiful …show more content…
island in the Carribean has now lost most of its beauty due to a communist regime that has ruled over the island for 60 years. The Republic of Cuba consists of one large island and several small ones situated on the northern rim of the Caribbean Sea, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) south of
Florida. With an area of 110,860 square kilometers (42,803 square miles), Cuba is the largest country in the Caribbean. The area occupied by Cuba is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
Cuba's coastline is marked by bays, reefs, keys, and islets. Along the southern coast are long stretches of lowlands and swamps. Slightly more than half the island consists of flat or rolling terrain, and the remainder is hilly or mountainous
How was Cuba put on the map…Christopher Columbus landing on the island during his first voyage of discovery on 28 October 1492. Although, according to archeological evidence it is suggested that, before Columbus' arrival the indigenous Guanajatabey, who had inhabited the island for centuries, were driven to the west of Cuba by the arrival of two subsequent waves of migrants, the Taino and the Ciboney. These peoples, had migrated north along the Caribbean island chain. According to historians the neo-Taino population of Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th Century. Their peoples cultivated the yuca root, harvested it.
Baked it to produce cassava bread which was a favorite. They grew cotton and tobacco, and ate maize and sweet potatoes. Cuba’s soil is very rich in fertilizer. Havana was briefly occupied by Great Britain, before being returned to Spain in exchange for Florida. A series of rebellions during the 19th century failed to end Spanish rule.
However, increased tensions between Spain and the United States, which culminated in the
Spanish-American War, finally led to a Spanish withdrawal in 1898, and in 1902 Cuba gained formal independence. In the years following its independence, Cuba saw significant economic development, but also political corruption and a succession of despotic leaders, culminating in the overthrow of the dictator Fulgencio Batista by the communist revolutionary Fidel Castro during the 1953-9 Cuban Revolution. Cuba has since been ruled by Castro's Communist Party of
Cuba. The country has been politically and economically isolated since the Revolution, but has gradually become more open to foreign commerce and travel. other countries. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United
States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. From 1959 through 1993, some 1.2million
Cubans (about 10% of the current population) left the island for the United
States, often by sea in small boats and fragile rafts. Between 30,000 and 80,000 Cubans are estimated to have died trying flee Cuba. The United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba on 3 January 1961, and
Imposed a trade embargo on February 1962.The Organization of American states, under pressure from the United States, suspended Cuba's membership in the body on 22 January
1962, and the US Government banned all US-Cuban trade on 7 February. The Kennedy administration extended this ban on 8 February 1963, forbidding US citizens to travel to Cuba or conduct financial or commercial transactions with the country. The US recognized the Castro government on 7 January, only six days after Batista fled
Cuba. The Eisenhower administration, in agreement with the US media and the Congress
(Republicans and Democrats alike), sent a new Ambassador to Cuba to replace the old one because he was very close to Batista and now Castro was in power, He did this with the assumption that "Cuba must remain in the US sphere of influence". If Castro accepted these parameters, he would be allowed to stay in power. Otherwise he would be overthrown.
In April 2009, US President Barack-Obama expressed his intention to relax the existing travel restrictions by making it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba. However, on 2 September 2010,
Obama extended the embargo through September 14, 2011, determining that the embargo was
"in the national interest of the United States.
The commercial embargo is still in effect as of January 2013, although some humanitarian trade in food and medicines is now allowed. At first, the embargo did not extend to other countries and
Cuba traded with most European, Asian and Latin American countries and especially Canada.
However,the United States now pressures other nations and US companies with foreign subsidiaries to restrict trade with Cuba. Also, the Helms-Burton Act of 1996 makes it very difficult for companies doing business with Cuba to also do business in the United States, forcing internationals to choose between the two of upper- and middle-class Cubans to the United States and From the very beginning the Cuban Revolution defined itself as internationalist and focused on the whole world.
Thus, out of this idealism and also as a strategy for survival, already one year after the victory of revolution on Cuba the country took on civil and military assignments in the southern hemisphere. Although still a third world country itself Cuba
supported African, Central American and Asian countries in the fields of military development, health and education. These "overseas adventures" not only irritated the USA but quite often were a "major headache" for Cuba's ostensible allies in the Kremlin.
RELIGIONS :
The cuban culture consists of many religions. Cuba is home to a variety of syncretic religions of largely African cultural origin. It is estimated that the prevailing religion practiced is the Catholic Religion. However, there are many others practiced throughout the island . Protestants, Baptists, Pentecoastals, Seventh Day adventists,
Prebysterians Jehovahs Witness etc… Although, according to a US State Department report, some sources estimate that as much as 80 percent of the population consults with practitioners of religions with West …show more content…
African roots, such as Santeria or Yoruba. Santería developed out of the traditions of the Yoruba, one of the African peoples who were imported to Cuba during the 16th through 19th centuries to work on the sugar plantations. Santería blends elements of Christianity and West African beliefs and as such made it possible for the slaves to retain their traditional beliefs while appearing to practice Catholicism.
LANGUAGE:
Although there are no local dialects, the island’s diverse ethnic groups have influenced speech patterns. African have greatly enriched the vocabulary and contributed the soft, somewhat nasal accent and rhythmic intonation that distinguish contemporary Cuban speech. The language of Cuba is Spanish and it is spoken throughout the island. It is said that the Spanish used is very similar to that used in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, but different from that spoken in South America, Spain and Mexico. Cubans tend to swallow the last syllable in a word and generally swallow the‘s’ sound. Another language that is widely spoken in the country is English. Many Cuban business people understand and speak English, but in most cases foreigners make a greater impact and find more acceptability if they address themselves in Spanish.
CUSTOMS: DANCES used in Cuba Cuban music has its principal roots in Spain and West Africa, but over time has been influenced by diverse genres from different countries. Rumba, Guaganco, Rueda de Casinand Salsa (the most popular), Timba, Guaracha, mambo, Son , Danzon and Cha cha cha. These are used by mostly all the Spanish population.
There is specific music for each and the wording in Spanish songs all have great meaning.
Children are all taught at early ages how to dance all of these at family parties as well as in dance schools. Cubans also enjoy a great cigar , a great drink of good rum and all during a game of dominoes. Thius is how most latins do their SUPERBOWL Sunday compared to a great
American Bar-b-que.
FOODS:
Sofrito: Sofrito is a sort of sauce made of garlic, onions, peppers, oregano and tomatoes fried in olive oil. Sofrito is not meant to be eaten by itself, but rather forms a flavor base for other dishes.
Ropa Vieja (“Old Clothes”): This unappetizing-sounding dish is a Cuban favorite. Ropa
Vieja is shredded beef (usually a tough but tasty cut such as flank steak) which has been slow-cooked and shredded, then served in a tomato or sofrito sauce. On your plate, it looks a little like Carolina-style pulled pork, for those familiar with it, although the taste is different. It is this shredded look that gives the dish its name.
Picadillo (Cuban Beef Hash): Made of ground beef, onions, olives, garlic, oregano, tomato sauce and raisins, picadillo is another favorite. Some recipes call for capers, cinnamon, cloves or cumin: every Cuban chef has his or her own family recipe. When prepared correctly, picadillo has a sticky, pasty texture. It is served over rice or cooked in dough to make empanadas.
Middle and upper class Cubans, including tourists, usually consume a wider variety of foods, if available. The most common meals include those made with pork, chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and lettuce. Hot spices are rarely used in Cuban cooking. Fried ( pollo frito ) or grilled ( pollo asado ) chicken and grilled pork chops . Black beans, red beans chicharos(chick peas) and rice are also a must with every meal.
Cuban desserts - Flan, Bread pudding, cappuccinos (cake tasting mini).
The cuban traditions also celebrate Christmas, Dia de los Reyes Magos Day(The three Wise Kings Day) celebrated every (January 6) Easter, mothers day. fathers day grandparents day, all family and friends birthdays, graduations and even work promotions. These are always celebrated with family gatherings , lots of food , drinks , music and laughter. They also celebrate for each daughter their “QUINCES” . This is a huge celebration to introduce their daughters to society. It is done with a choreography consisting of 15 couples doing many traditional dances with a theme chosen by the young lady turning 15. many weeks of practices. The family usually have anywhere from 130-400 guest invited to a Ballroom party where all of this takes place. I have two girls –both celebrated their
“Quinces”. I had 300 guests and the cost was approximately 32 thousand per party. These parties are planned at least 3-4 years ahead of the actual date. Weddings are also considered a very holy occasion with reason for big celebration.
OLD AGE- SENIOR CITIZENS:
Within the hispanic community there is much respect for our senior citizens. Most families do all they can and refuse to have their parents put into an Adult Living Facility.
As far as funerals and burials these are usually also a big affair. I am very proud to consider myself a TRUE AMERICAN however, mu spanish customs and heritage are the norms for me and have been the norm for the upbringing of my children.
MY “ LATIN” CULTURE
My name is Beatriz A. Aquino and I was born in Havana, Cuba. My parents emigrated to the beautiful state of Florida in May of 1967. I was a month short of turning 2 years old. I have never visited the country where I was born due to the political system practiced there but I do know its history customs and cultures. I consider myself a Cuban-American. What I mean by this is I was born a Cuban and am very proud to say that; however I was raised in the United States and therefore will always be an American. Throughout this paper I will guide you on a journey throughout the beautiful island that sits just
90 miles away. That land where I was born, CUBA. Cuba as it was known to many as the most beautiful island in the Carribean has now lost most of its beauty due to a communist regime that has ruled over the island for 60 years. The Republic of Cuba consists of one large island and several small ones situated on the northern rim of the Caribbean Sea, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) south of
Florida. With an area of 110,860 square kilometers (42,803 square miles), Cuba is the largest country in the Caribbean. The area occupied by Cuba is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
Cuba's coastline is marked by bays, reefs, keys, and islets. Along the southern coast are long stretches of lowlands and swamps. Slightly more than half the island consists of flat or rolling terrain, and the remainder is hilly or mountainous
How was Cuba put on the map…Christopher Columbus landing on the island during his first voyage of discovery on 28 October 1492. Although, according to archeological evidence it is suggested that, before Columbus' arrival the indigenous Guanajatabey, who had inhabited the island for centuries, were driven to the west of Cuba by the arrival of two subsequent waves of migrants, the Taino and the Ciboney. These peoples, had migrated north along the Caribbean island chain. According to historians the neo-Taino population of Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th Century. Their peoples cultivated the yuca root, harvested it.
Baked it to produce cassava bread which was a favorite. They grew cotton and tobacco, and ate maize and sweet potatoes. Cuba’s soil is very rich in fertilizer. Havana was briefly occupied by Great Britain, before being returned to Spain in exchange for Florida. A series of rebellions during the 19th century failed to end Spanish
rule.
However, increased tensions between Spain and the United States, which culminated in the
Spanish-American War, finally led to a Spanish withdrawal in 1898, and in 1902 Cuba gained formal independence. In the years following its independence, Cuba saw significant economic development, but also political corruption and a succession of despotic leaders, culminating in the overthrow of the dictator Fulgencio Batista by the communist revolutionary Fidel Castro during the 1953-9 Cuban Revolution. Cuba has since been ruled by Castro's Communist Party of
Cuba. The country has been politically and economically isolated since the Revolution, but has gradually become more open to foreign commerce and travel. other countries. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United
States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. From 1959 through 1993, some 1.2million
Cubans (about 10% of the current population) left the island for the United
States, often by sea in small boats and fragile rafts. Between 30,000 and 80,000 Cubans are estimated to have died trying flee Cuba. The United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba on 3 January 1961, and
Imposed a trade embargo on February 1962.The Organization of American states, under pressure from the United States, suspended Cuba's membership in the body on 22 January
1962, and the US Government banned all US-Cuban trade on 7 February. The Kennedy administration extended this ban on 8 February 1963, forbidding US citizens to travel to Cuba or conduct financial or commercial transactions with the country. The US recognized the Castro government on 7 January, only six days after Batista fled
Cuba. The Eisenhower administration, in agreement with the US media and the Congress
(Republicans and Democrats alike), sent a new Ambassador to Cuba to replace the old one because he was very close to Batista and now Castro was in power, He did this with the assumption that "Cuba must remain in the US sphere of influence". If Castro accepted these parameters, he would be allowed to stay in power. Otherwise he would be overthrown.
In April 2009, US President Barack-Obama expressed his intention to relax the existing travel restrictions by making it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba. However, on 2 September 2010,
Obama extended the embargo through September 14, 2011, determining that the embargo was
"in the national interest of the United States.
The commercial embargo is still in effect as of January 2013, although some humanitarian trade in food and medicines is now allowed. At first, the embargo did not extend to other countries and
Cuba traded with most European, Asian and Latin American countries and especially Canada.
However,the United States now pressures other nations and US companies with foreign subsidiaries to restrict trade with Cuba. Also, the Helms-Burton Act of 1996 makes it very difficult for companies doing business with Cuba to also do business in the United States, forcing internationals to choose between the two of upper- and middle-class Cubans to the United States and From the very beginning the Cuban Revolution defined itself as internationalist and focused on the whole world. Thus, out of this idealism and also as a strategy for survival, already one year after the victory of revolution on Cuba the country took on civil and military assignments in the southern hemisphere. Although still a third world country itself Cuba
supported African, Central American and Asian countries in the fields of military development, health and education. These "overseas adventures" not only irritated the USA but quite often were a "major headache" for Cuba's ostensible allies in the Kremlin.
RELIGIONS :
The cuban culture consists of many religions. Cuba is home to a variety of syncretic religions of largely African cultural origin. It is estimated that the prevailing religion practiced is the Catholic Religion. However, there are many others practiced throughout the island . Protestants, Baptists, Pentecoastals, Seventh Day adventists,
Prebysterians Jehovahs Witness etc… Although, according to a US State Department report, some sources estimate that as much as 80 percent of the population consults with practitioners of religions with West African roots, such as Santeria or Yoruba. Santería developed out of the traditions of the Yoruba, one of the African peoples who were imported to Cuba during the 16th through 19th centuries to work on the sugar plantations. Santería blends elements of Christianity and West African beliefs and as such made it possible for the slaves to retain their traditional beliefs while appearing to practice Catholicism.
LANGUAGE:
Although there are no local dialects, the island’s diverse ethnic groups have influenced speech patterns. African have greatly enriched the vocabulary and contributed the soft, somewhat nasal accent and rhythmic intonation that distinguish contemporary Cuban speech. The language of Cuba is Spanish and it is spoken throughout the island. It is said that the Spanish used is very similar to that used in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, but different from that spoken in South America, Spain and Mexico. Cubans tend to swallow the last syllable in a word and generally swallow the‘s’ sound. Another language that is widely spoken in the country is English. Many Cuban business people understand and speak English, but in most cases foreigners make a greater impact and find more acceptability if they address themselves in Spanish.
CUSTOMS: DANCES used in Cuba Cuban music has its principal roots in Spain and West Africa, but over time has been influenced by diverse genres from different countries. Rumba, Guaganco, Rueda de Casinand Salsa (the most popular), Timba, Guaracha, mambo, Son , Danzon and Cha cha cha. These are used by mostly all the Spanish population.
There is specific music for each and the wording in Spanish songs all have great meaning.
Children are all taught at early ages how to dance all of these at family parties as well as in dance schools. Cubans also enjoy a great cigar , a great drink of good rum and all during a game of dominoes. Thius is how most latins do their SUPERBOWL Sunday compared to a great
American Bar-b-que.
FOODS:
Sofrito: Sofrito is a sort of sauce made of garlic, onions, peppers, oregano and tomatoes fried in olive oil. Sofrito is not meant to be eaten by itself, but rather forms a flavor base for other dishes.
Ropa Vieja (“Old Clothes”): This unappetizing-sounding dish is a Cuban favorite. Ropa
Vieja is shredded beef (usually a tough but tasty cut such as flank steak) which has been slow-cooked and shredded, then served in a tomato or sofrito sauce. On your plate, it looks a little like Carolina-style pulled pork, for those familiar with it, although the taste is different. It is this shredded look that gives the dish its name.
Picadillo (Cuban Beef Hash): Made of ground beef, onions, olives, garlic, oregano, tomato sauce and raisins, picadillo is another favorite. Some recipes call for capers, cinnamon, cloves or cumin: every Cuban chef has his or her own family recipe. When prepared correctly, picadillo has a sticky, pasty texture. It is served over rice or cooked in dough to make empanadas.
Middle and upper class Cubans, including tourists, usually consume a wider variety of foods, if available. The most common meals include those made with pork, chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and lettuce. Hot spices are rarely used in Cuban cooking. Fried ( pollo frito ) or grilled ( pollo asado ) chicken and grilled pork chops . Black beans, red beans chicharos(chick peas) and rice are also a must with every meal.
Cuban desserts - Flan, Bread pudding, cappuccinos (cake tasting mini).
The cuban traditions also celebrate Christmas, Dia de los Reyes Magos Day(The three Wise Kings Day) celebrated every (January 6) Easter, mothers day. fathers day grandparents day, all family and friends birthdays, graduations and even work promotions. These are always celebrated with family gatherings , lots of food , drinks , music and laughter. They also celebrate for each daughter their “QUINCES” . This is a huge celebration to introduce their daughters to society. It is done with a choreography consisting of 15 couples doing many traditional dances with a theme chosen by the young lady turning 15. many weeks of practices. The family usually have anywhere from 130-400 guest invited to a Ballroom party where all of this takes place. I have two girls –both celebrated their
“Quinces”. I had 300 guests and the cost was approximately 32 thousand per party. These parties are planned at least 3-4 years ahead of the actual date. Weddings are also considered a very holy occasion with reason for big celebration.
OLD AGE- SENIOR CITIZENS:
Within the hispanic community there is much respect for our senior citizens. Most families do all they can and refuse to have their parents put into an Adult Living Facility.
As far as funerals and burials these are usually also a big affair. I am very proud to consider myself a TRUE AMERICAN however, mu spanish customs and heritage are the norms for me and have been the norm for the upbringing of my children.
My name is Beatriz A. Aquino and I was born in Havana, Cuba. My parents emigrated to the beautiful state of Florida in May of 1967. I was a month short of turning 2 years old. I have never visited the country where I was born due to the political system practiced there but I do know its history customs and cultures. I consider myself a Cuban-American. What I mean by this is I was born a Cuban and am very proud to say that; however I was raised in the United States and therefore will always be an American. Throughout this paper I will guide you on a journey throughout the beautiful island that sits just
90 miles away. That land where I was born, CUBA. Cuba as it was known to many as the most beautiful …show more content…
island in the Carribean has now lost most of its beauty due to a communist regime that has ruled over the island for 60 years. The Republic of Cuba consists of one large island and several small ones situated on the northern rim of the Caribbean Sea, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) south of
Florida. With an area of 110,860 square kilometers (42,803 square miles), Cuba is the largest country in the Caribbean. The area occupied by Cuba is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
Cuba's coastline is marked by bays, reefs, keys, and islets. Along the southern coast are long stretches of lowlands and swamps. Slightly more than half the island consists of flat or rolling terrain, and the remainder is hilly or mountainous
How was Cuba put on the map…Christopher Columbus landing on the island during his first voyage of discovery on 28 October 1492. Although, according to archeological evidence it is suggested that, before Columbus' arrival the indigenous Guanajatabey, who had inhabited the island for centuries, were driven to the west of Cuba by the arrival of two subsequent waves of migrants, the Taino and the Ciboney. These peoples, had migrated north along the Caribbean island chain. According to historians the neo-Taino population of Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th Century. Their peoples cultivated the yuca root, harvested it.
Baked it to produce cassava bread which was a favorite. They grew cotton and tobacco, and ate maize and sweet potatoes. Cuba’s soil is very rich in fertilizer. Havana was briefly occupied by Great Britain, before being returned to Spain in exchange for Florida. A series of rebellions during the 19th century failed to end Spanish rule.
However, increased tensions between Spain and the United States, which culminated in the
Spanish-American War, finally led to a Spanish withdrawal in 1898, and in 1902 Cuba gained formal independence. In the years following its independence, Cuba saw significant economic development, but also political corruption and a succession of despotic leaders, culminating in the overthrow of the dictator Fulgencio Batista by the communist revolutionary Fidel Castro during the 1953-9 Cuban Revolution. Cuba has since been ruled by Castro's Communist Party of
Cuba. The country has been politically and economically isolated since the Revolution, but has gradually become more open to foreign commerce and travel. other countries. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United
States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. From 1959 through 1993, some 1.2million
Cubans (about 10% of the current population) left the island for the United
States, often by sea in small boats and fragile rafts. Between 30,000 and 80,000 Cubans are estimated to have died trying flee Cuba. The United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba on 3 January 1961, and
Imposed a trade embargo on February 1962.The Organization of American states, under pressure from the United States, suspended Cuba's membership in the body on 22 January
1962, and the US Government banned all US-Cuban trade on 7 February. The Kennedy administration extended this ban on 8 February 1963, forbidding US citizens to travel to Cuba or conduct financial or commercial transactions with the country. The US recognized the Castro government on 7 January, only six days after Batista fled
Cuba. The Eisenhower administration, in agreement with the US media and the Congress
(Republicans and Democrats alike), sent a new Ambassador to Cuba to replace the old one because he was very close to Batista and now Castro was in power, He did this with the assumption that "Cuba must remain in the US sphere of influence". If Castro accepted these parameters, he would be allowed to stay in power. Otherwise he would be overthrown.
In April 2009, US President Barack-Obama expressed his intention to relax the existing travel restrictions by making it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba. However, on 2 September 2010,
Obama extended the embargo through September 14, 2011, determining that the embargo was
"in the national interest of the United States.
The commercial embargo is still in effect as of January 2013, although some humanitarian trade in food and medicines is now allowed. At first, the embargo did not extend to other countries and
Cuba traded with most European, Asian and Latin American countries and especially Canada.
However,the United States now pressures other nations and US companies with foreign subsidiaries to restrict trade with Cuba. Also, the Helms-Burton Act of 1996 makes it very difficult for companies doing business with Cuba to also do business in the United States, forcing internationals to choose between the two of upper- and middle-class Cubans to the United States and From the very beginning the Cuban Revolution defined itself as internationalist and focused on the whole world.
Thus, out of this idealism and also as a strategy for survival, already one year after the victory of revolution on Cuba the country took on civil and military assignments in the southern hemisphere. Although still a third world country itself Cuba
supported African, Central American and Asian countries in the fields of military development, health and education. These "overseas adventures" not only irritated the USA but quite often were a "major headache" for Cuba's ostensible allies in the Kremlin.
RELIGIONS :
The cuban culture consists of many religions. Cuba is home to a variety of syncretic religions of largely African cultural origin. It is estimated that the prevailing religion practiced is the Catholic Religion. However, there are many others practiced throughout the island . Protestants, Baptists, Pentecoastals, Seventh Day adventists,
Prebysterians Jehovahs Witness etc… Although, according to a US State Department report, some sources estimate that as much as 80 percent of the population consults with practitioners of religions with West …show more content…
African roots, such as Santeria or Yoruba. Santería developed out of the traditions of the Yoruba, one of the African peoples who were imported to Cuba during the 16th through 19th centuries to work on the sugar plantations. Santería blends elements of Christianity and West African beliefs and as such made it possible for the slaves to retain their traditional beliefs while appearing to practice Catholicism.
LANGUAGE:
Although there are no local dialects, the island’s diverse ethnic groups have influenced speech patterns. African have greatly enriched the vocabulary and contributed the soft, somewhat nasal accent and rhythmic intonation that distinguish contemporary Cuban speech. The language of Cuba is Spanish and it is spoken throughout the island. It is said that the Spanish used is very similar to that used in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, but different from that spoken in South America, Spain and Mexico. Cubans tend to swallow the last syllable in a word and generally swallow the‘s’ sound. Another language that is widely spoken in the country is English. Many Cuban business people understand and speak English, but in most cases foreigners make a greater impact and find more acceptability if they address themselves in Spanish.
CUSTOMS: DANCES used in Cuba Cuban music has its principal roots in Spain and West Africa, but over time has been influenced by diverse genres from different countries. Rumba, Guaganco, Rueda de Casinand Salsa (the most popular), Timba, Guaracha, mambo, Son , Danzon and Cha cha cha. These are used by mostly all the Spanish population.
There is specific music for each and the wording in Spanish songs all have great meaning.
Children are all taught at early ages how to dance all of these at family parties as well as in dance schools. Cubans also enjoy a great cigar , a great drink of good rum and all during a game of dominoes. Thius is how most latins do their SUPERBOWL Sunday compared to a great
American Bar-b-que.
FOODS:
Sofrito: Sofrito is a sort of sauce made of garlic, onions, peppers, oregano and tomatoes fried in olive oil. Sofrito is not meant to be eaten by itself, but rather forms a flavor base for other dishes.
Ropa Vieja (“Old Clothes”): This unappetizing-sounding dish is a Cuban favorite. Ropa
Vieja is shredded beef (usually a tough but tasty cut such as flank steak) which has been slow-cooked and shredded, then served in a tomato or sofrito sauce. On your plate, it looks a little like Carolina-style pulled pork, for those familiar with it, although the taste is different. It is this shredded look that gives the dish its name.
Picadillo (Cuban Beef Hash): Made of ground beef, onions, olives, garlic, oregano, tomato sauce and raisins, picadillo is another favorite. Some recipes call for capers, cinnamon, cloves or cumin: every Cuban chef has his or her own family recipe. When prepared correctly, picadillo has a sticky, pasty texture. It is served over rice or cooked in dough to make empanadas.
Middle and upper class Cubans, including tourists, usually consume a wider variety of foods, if available. The most common meals include those made with pork, chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and lettuce. Hot spices are rarely used in Cuban cooking. Fried ( pollo frito ) or grilled ( pollo asado ) chicken and grilled pork chops . Black beans, red beans chicharos(chick peas) and rice are also a must with every meal.
Cuban desserts - Flan, Bread pudding, cappuccinos (cake tasting mini).
The cuban traditions also celebrate Christmas, Dia de los Reyes Magos Day(The three Wise Kings Day) celebrated every (January 6) Easter, mothers day. fathers day grandparents day, all family and friends birthdays, graduations and even work promotions. These are always celebrated with family gatherings , lots of food , drinks , music and laughter. They also celebrate for each daughter their “QUINCES” . This is a huge celebration to introduce their daughters to society. It is done with a choreography consisting of 15 couples doing many traditional dances with a theme chosen by the young lady turning 15. many weeks of practices. The family usually have anywhere from 130-400 guest invited to a Ballroom party where all of this takes place. I have two girls –both celebrated their
“Quinces”. I had 300 guests and the cost was approximately 32 thousand per party. These parties are planned at least 3-4 years ahead of the actual date. Weddings are also considered a very holy occasion with reason for big celebration.
OLD AGE- SENIOR CITIZENS:
Within the hispanic community there is much respect for our senior citizens. Most families do all they can and refuse to have their parents put into an Adult Living Facility.
As far as funerals and burials these are usually also a big affair. I am very proud to consider myself a TRUE AMERICAN however, mu spanish customs and heritage are the norms for me and have been the norm for the upbringing of my children.
MY “ LATIN” CULTURE
My name is Beatriz A. Aquino and I was born in Havana, Cuba. My parents emigrated to the beautiful state of Florida in May of 1967. I was a month short of turning 2 years old. I have never visited the country where I was born due to the political system practiced there but I do know its history customs and cultures. I consider myself a Cuban-American. What I mean by this is I was born a Cuban and am very proud to say that; however I was raised in the United States and therefore will always be an American. Throughout this paper I will guide you on a journey throughout the beautiful island that sits just
90 miles away. That land where I was born, CUBA. Cuba as it was known to many as the most beautiful island in the Carribean has now lost most of its beauty due to a communist regime that has ruled over the island for 60 years. The Republic of Cuba consists of one large island and several small ones situated on the northern rim of the Caribbean Sea, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) south of
Florida. With an area of 110,860 square kilometers (42,803 square miles), Cuba is the largest country in the Caribbean. The area occupied by Cuba is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
Cuba's coastline is marked by bays, reefs, keys, and islets. Along the southern coast are long stretches of lowlands and swamps. Slightly more than half the island consists of flat or rolling terrain, and the remainder is hilly or mountainous
How was Cuba put on the map…Christopher Columbus landing on the island during his first voyage of discovery on 28 October 1492. Although, according to archeological evidence it is suggested that, before Columbus' arrival the indigenous Guanajatabey, who had inhabited the island for centuries, were driven to the west of Cuba by the arrival of two subsequent waves of migrants, the Taino and the Ciboney. These peoples, had migrated north along the Caribbean island chain. According to historians the neo-Taino population of Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th Century. Their peoples cultivated the yuca root, harvested it.
Baked it to produce cassava bread which was a favorite. They grew cotton and tobacco, and ate maize and sweet potatoes. Cuba’s soil is very rich in fertilizer. Havana was briefly occupied by Great Britain, before being returned to Spain in exchange for Florida. A series of rebellions during the 19th century failed to end Spanish
rule.
However, increased tensions between Spain and the United States, which culminated in the
Spanish-American War, finally led to a Spanish withdrawal in 1898, and in 1902 Cuba gained formal independence. In the years following its independence, Cuba saw significant economic development, but also political corruption and a succession of despotic leaders, culminating in the overthrow of the dictator Fulgencio Batista by the communist revolutionary Fidel Castro during the 1953-9 Cuban Revolution. Cuba has since been ruled by Castro's Communist Party of
Cuba. The country has been politically and economically isolated since the Revolution, but has gradually become more open to foreign commerce and travel. other countries. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. By 1961, thousands of Cubans had fled Cuba for the United
States. On 22 March an exile council was formed. From 1959 through 1993, some 1.2million
Cubans (about 10% of the current population) left the island for the United
States, often by sea in small boats and fragile rafts. Between 30,000 and 80,000 Cubans are estimated to have died trying flee Cuba. The United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba on 3 January 1961, and
Imposed a trade embargo on February 1962.The Organization of American states, under pressure from the United States, suspended Cuba's membership in the body on 22 January
1962, and the US Government banned all US-Cuban trade on 7 February. The Kennedy administration extended this ban on 8 February 1963, forbidding US citizens to travel to Cuba or conduct financial or commercial transactions with the country. The US recognized the Castro government on 7 January, only six days after Batista fled
Cuba. The Eisenhower administration, in agreement with the US media and the Congress
(Republicans and Democrats alike), sent a new Ambassador to Cuba to replace the old one because he was very close to Batista and now Castro was in power, He did this with the assumption that "Cuba must remain in the US sphere of influence". If Castro accepted these parameters, he would be allowed to stay in power. Otherwise he would be overthrown.
In April 2009, US President Barack-Obama expressed his intention to relax the existing travel restrictions by making it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba. However, on 2 September 2010,
Obama extended the embargo through September 14, 2011, determining that the embargo was
"in the national interest of the United States.
The commercial embargo is still in effect as of January 2013, although some humanitarian trade in food and medicines is now allowed. At first, the embargo did not extend to other countries and
Cuba traded with most European, Asian and Latin American countries and especially Canada.
However,the United States now pressures other nations and US companies with foreign subsidiaries to restrict trade with Cuba. Also, the Helms-Burton Act of 1996 makes it very difficult for companies doing business with Cuba to also do business in the United States, forcing internationals to choose between the two of upper- and middle-class Cubans to the United States and From the very beginning the Cuban Revolution defined itself as internationalist and focused on the whole world. Thus, out of this idealism and also as a strategy for survival, already one year after the victory of revolution on Cuba the country took on civil and military assignments in the southern hemisphere. Although still a third world country itself Cuba
supported African, Central American and Asian countries in the fields of military development, health and education. These "overseas adventures" not only irritated the USA but quite often were a "major headache" for Cuba's ostensible allies in the Kremlin.
RELIGIONS :
The cuban culture consists of many religions. Cuba is home to a variety of syncretic religions of largely African cultural origin. It is estimated that the prevailing religion practiced is the Catholic Religion. However, there are many others practiced throughout the island . Protestants, Baptists, Pentecoastals, Seventh Day adventists,
Prebysterians Jehovahs Witness etc… Although, according to a US State Department report, some sources estimate that as much as 80 percent of the population consults with practitioners of religions with West African roots, such as Santeria or Yoruba. Santería developed out of the traditions of the Yoruba, one of the African peoples who were imported to Cuba during the 16th through 19th centuries to work on the sugar plantations. Santería blends elements of Christianity and West African beliefs and as such made it possible for the slaves to retain their traditional beliefs while appearing to practice Catholicism.
LANGUAGE:
Although there are no local dialects, the island’s diverse ethnic groups have influenced speech patterns. African have greatly enriched the vocabulary and contributed the soft, somewhat nasal accent and rhythmic intonation that distinguish contemporary Cuban speech. The language of Cuba is Spanish and it is spoken throughout the island. It is said that the Spanish used is very similar to that used in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, but different from that spoken in South America, Spain and Mexico. Cubans tend to swallow the last syllable in a word and generally swallow the‘s’ sound. Another language that is widely spoken in the country is English. Many Cuban business people understand and speak English, but in most cases foreigners make a greater impact and find more acceptability if they address themselves in Spanish.
CUSTOMS: DANCES used in Cuba Cuban music has its principal roots in Spain and West Africa, but over time has been influenced by diverse genres from different countries. Rumba, Guaganco, Rueda de Casinand Salsa (the most popular), Timba, Guaracha, mambo, Son , Danzon and Cha cha cha. These are used by mostly all the Spanish population.
There is specific music for each and the wording in Spanish songs all have great meaning.
Children are all taught at early ages how to dance all of these at family parties as well as in dance schools. Cubans also enjoy a great cigar , a great drink of good rum and all during a game of dominoes. Thius is how most latins do their SUPERBOWL Sunday compared to a great
American Bar-b-que.
FOODS:
Sofrito: Sofrito is a sort of sauce made of garlic, onions, peppers, oregano and tomatoes fried in olive oil. Sofrito is not meant to be eaten by itself, but rather forms a flavor base for other dishes.
Ropa Vieja (“Old Clothes”): This unappetizing-sounding dish is a Cuban favorite. Ropa
Vieja is shredded beef (usually a tough but tasty cut such as flank steak) which has been slow-cooked and shredded, then served in a tomato or sofrito sauce. On your plate, it looks a little like Carolina-style pulled pork, for those familiar with it, although the taste is different. It is this shredded look that gives the dish its name.
Picadillo (Cuban Beef Hash): Made of ground beef, onions, olives, garlic, oregano, tomato sauce and raisins, picadillo is another favorite. Some recipes call for capers, cinnamon, cloves or cumin: every Cuban chef has his or her own family recipe. When prepared correctly, picadillo has a sticky, pasty texture. It is served over rice or cooked in dough to make empanadas.
Middle and upper class Cubans, including tourists, usually consume a wider variety of foods, if available. The most common meals include those made with pork, chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and lettuce. Hot spices are rarely used in Cuban cooking. Fried ( pollo frito ) or grilled ( pollo asado ) chicken and grilled pork chops . Black beans, red beans chicharos(chick peas) and rice are also a must with every meal.
Cuban desserts - Flan, Bread pudding, cappuccinos (cake tasting mini).
The cuban traditions also celebrate Christmas, Dia de los Reyes Magos Day(The three Wise Kings Day) celebrated every (January 6) Easter, mothers day. fathers day grandparents day, all family and friends birthdays, graduations and even work promotions. These are always celebrated with family gatherings , lots of food , drinks , music and laughter. They also celebrate for each daughter their “QUINCES” . This is a huge celebration to introduce their daughters to society. It is done with a choreography consisting of 15 couples doing many traditional dances with a theme chosen by the young lady turning 15. many weeks of practices. The family usually have anywhere from 130-400 guest invited to a Ballroom party where all of this takes place. I have two girls –both celebrated their
“Quinces”. I had 300 guests and the cost was approximately 32 thousand per party. These parties are planned at least 3-4 years ahead of the actual date. Weddings are also considered a very holy occasion with reason for big celebration.
OLD AGE- SENIOR CITIZENS:
Within the hispanic community there is much respect for our senior citizens. Most families do all they can and refuse to have their parents put into an Adult Living Facility.
As far as funerals and burials these are usually also a big affair. I am very proud to consider myself a TRUE AMERICAN however, mu spanish customs and heritage are the norms for me and have been the norm for the upbringing of my children.