Fact Check: Cuba wasa developed and high-income country before 1959.

Claim Analysis: "Cuba was a developed and high-income country before 1959."

1. Introduction

The claim that "Cuba was a developed and high-income country before 1959" suggests that prior to the Cuban Revolution, Cuba had achieved a level of economic and social development comparable to that of advanced nations. This assertion is often debated among historians, economists, and political analysts, with varying interpretations of Cuba's socio-economic status in the years leading up to the revolution.

2. What We Know

Cuba's economic status before 1959 can be assessed through various indicators:

• Economic Growth and Income Levels: According to the CIA's statistical review, Cuba was one of the wealthier nations in Latin America, ranking third in GDP per capita in 1958, behind only Venezuela and Uruguay 10. This suggests a relatively high standard of living compared to other Latin American countries.

• Social Indicators: The Cuban Studies Institute states that before 1959, Cuba exhibited socio-economic indices that were superior to many regions in the southern United States and southern Europe, indicating a developed middle class and access to education and healthcare 5.

• Comparative Development: A report from the U.S. State Department argues against the notion that Cuba was backward before the revolution, stating that it was relatively advanced by Latin American standards 1.

• Economic Structure: The economy was heavily reliant on sugar exports, which contributed significantly to its wealth. However, this reliance also made the economy vulnerable to fluctuations in global sugar prices 9.

• Urbanization and Infrastructure: Cuba had a significant urban middle class and developed infrastructure, particularly in Havana, which was known for its vibrant cultural life and was a major tourist destination 8.

3. Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim that Cuba was developed before 1959 is substantial, but it is essential to consider the context and potential biases of the sources:

• Source Reliability: The U.S. State Department report 1 is a governmental source that may carry inherent biases, particularly in its framing of Cuba's socio-economic conditions in relation to U.S. foreign policy interests. Similarly, the Cuban Studies Institute 5 may present a perspective that aligns with pro-Cuban government narratives, which could influence its portrayal of pre-revolutionary Cuba.

• Economic Disparities: While Cuba had a relatively high GDP per capita, it is crucial to recognize that wealth was not evenly distributed. The existence of a large middle class does not negate the significant poverty and inequality that also characterized the society at the time. Reports indicate that while some Cubans enjoyed a high standard of living, many others lived in dire conditions, particularly in rural areas 67.

• Methodological Concerns: The methodologies used to measure economic growth and social development can vary significantly. For example, the Cuban government altered its methods for calculating GDP multiple times after 1959, which complicates direct comparisons of economic performance before and after the revolution 10.

• Historical Context: The narrative around Cuba's development is often influenced by political ideologies. For instance, some sources may emphasize the achievements of the Castro regime in improving literacy and healthcare post-revolution, which could downplay the advancements made prior to 1959 4.

4. Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that "Cuba was a developed and high-income country before 1959" is partially true based on several indicators of economic and social development. Evidence suggests that Cuba had a relatively high GDP per capita and a developed middle class, particularly in urban areas. However, this narrative is complicated by significant economic disparities and the reliance on a single export commodity, which created vulnerabilities.

Moreover, the interpretation of Cuba's development is influenced by the biases of various sources, and the methodologies used to assess economic performance can vary. While some sources present a favorable view of pre-revolutionary Cuba, others highlight the poverty and inequality that existed alongside its economic achievements.

It is important to acknowledge the limitations in the available evidence, as historical assessments can be subjective and influenced by political contexts. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when forming conclusions about Cuba's socio-economic status before 1959.

5. Sources

1. U.S. State Department. "Zenith and Eclipse: A Comparative Look at Socio-Economic Conditions in Cuba." Link
2. CIA. "THE CUBAN ECONOMY: A STATISTICAL REVIEW 1957-70." Link
3. Wikipedia. "Economy of Cuba." Link
4. Wikipedia. "Economy of Cuba." Link
5. Cuban Studies Institute. "¿Qué tan próspera era Cuba antes de 1959?" Link
6. ASCE Cuba. "The Cuban Economy 60 years Later." Link
7. Cold War Studies. "Cold War Cuba: Housing and The Economy." Link
8. Rare Historical Photos. "The Havana High Life before Castro and the Revolution." Link
9. PBS. "Pre-Castro Cuba | American Experience." Link
10. ASCE Cuba. "Economic and Social Balance of 50 Years of Cuban Revolution." Link