Cuba Study Abroad Programs

The largest Caribbean island, Cuba was a key geographical and social area in the colonial Americas—offering large agriculturally rich areas, many bays, and a desirable location in the Caribbean for trade. Its history from Spanish colonial times to its time as an American territory, to independence and revolution, to the present-day authoritarian government illustrates the impact of both slavery and imperialism.

Physically close but politically isolated from the U.S., Cuba was also pivotal in the 20th century events impacting the U.S., from the Spanish-American War to the Cuban Missile Crisis. As a result, Cuba has maintained a cultural and mythic presence in the history of the U.S. and surrounding region. One of the last bastions of communism, Cuba’s rich history, intriguing modern events and society, and unfolding future make it a fascinating place to live and study.