Cuba, the Culture

This work is intended for children aged 9-14 years. The Spanish had an enormous impact on Cuba’s history and culture. They introduced the Spanish language to the island, and Roman Catholicism, which is the country’s main religion. Other cultures have also contributed their own influence particularly in the area of the arts and food. Cuba The Culture features the traditions and celebrations of the country’s many different cultural influences. Topics include: the influence of African music in Cuban styles of music and dance such as the conga; traditional dishes from Spain; Santeria, a religion influenced by West African traditions that blends Roman Catholic traditions with the belief in many gods and goddesses; Haitian Creole, Cuba’s second official language; traditional Chinese foods and celebrating Chinese New Year in El Barrio Chino, or China Town of Zafra, or the sugar cane harvest.