To Cuba and Back · Chapter
XXIII explained
The narrator provides a comprehensive analysis of Cuba's social, political, and economic conditions, categorizing the white population into Spaniards, other foreigners, and Cubans (Creoles).
What happens
The narrator provides a comprehensive analysis of Cuba's social, political, and economic conditions, categorizing the white population into Spaniards, other foreigners, and Cubans (Creoles). He discusses the despotic civil government, the power of the Captain-General, the role of the Roman Catholic Church, the status of free Blacks and slaves, and the material resources of the island. He reflects on the conflicting opinions of different classes regarding Cuba's future—independence, annexation, or protectorate—and offers his own observations as a temporary American visitor.
Themes in this chapter
Colonial Oppression and Despotism
The narrator describes a despotic civil government, compulsory religious uniformity, and the concentration of power in the Captain-General.
Slavery and Racial Hierarchy
Detailed discussion of free Blacks, slaves, laws for their protection, compulsory sale, purchase of freedom, and the problem of Negro labor.
Economic Exploitation and Sugar Monoculture
Focus on material resources, sugar crop, and the wealth generated by commerce and production.
Uncertain Political Future of Cuba
Exploration of independence, annexation, and protectorate, with conflicting views among Cubans, Spaniards, and foreigners.
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator analyzes Cuba's condition and reflects on his role as a critic and philosophizer.
- Cubans
Described as Creoles, mostly disaffected, desiring self-government or annexation to the United States.
- Spaniards
Peninsulares who constitute the army, navy, government officers, and wealthy merchants; generally oppose independence and annexation.
- Mr. Theodore Parker
Referenced indirectly as a source of influence; the narrator mentions having seen persons of influence and intelligence from each class.
- The Master
Implied in the discussion of slavery and the condition of slaves, though not directly named.
- Coolies
Not explicitly mentioned in this chapter, but the context of labor includes discussion of Negro labor and importation.
Key passages
“To an American, from the free States, Cuba presents an object of singular interest. His mind is occupied and almost oppressed by the thought of the strange problems that are in process of solution around him.”
For an American from the free states, Cuba is fascinating yet overwhelming, as he constantly ponders the complex issues unfolding there.
The narrator reflects on his own perspective as a critical observer.
“The Spaniards may be counted on as opponents of the independence of Cuba, and especially of her annexation to the United States.”
Spaniards are reliably against both Cuban independence and annexation to the U.S.
Political stance of the Spanish population.
“Of the Cubans; a few are advocates of the present government—but very few. The far greater part are disaffected.”
Only a small number of Cubans support the current government; most are dissatisfied.
Describes Cuban political sentiment.
“Many of them are sincere emancipationists, and fear that if they come in at the southern end of our Union, that question is closed forever.”
Many Cubans genuinely want emancipation and worry that annexation to the southern U.S. would end any hope of abolition.
Cuban concerns about annexation and slavery.
