Cuba's history is told in eight chronological chapters, from its earliest days as a Spanish colony, through its wars for independence and the U.S. occupation in the 20th century, Cuba's various reform movements, Batista, the Cold War, and the so-called Special Period, when Cuba faced the crisis of the downfall of the Soviet Union. Also included are a timeline, biographies of key players, and a bibliographic essay. With special emphasis on the 20th century, the Castro era, and Cuban-U.S. relations, this is the most recent, accessible, and current history of Cuba available, making it the perfect starting point for anyone seeking a concise and readable history of Cuba. Cuba is much more than cigars, classic automobiles, and Castro. This remarkable nation has had a long history of relations with larger political powers that were drawn to the island because of its valuable resources and strategic location. Ties between Cuba and the United States have been strong since the mid-19th century, and the theme of U.S. dominance over the island and its people is a primary historical perspective.