The Cuban Revolution

Abstract

Patriotism, collectivism, a combative and sacrificial spirit, a deep regard for culture and education, and the exaltation of youth are some of the values underlying the Cuban revolutionary project. While remaining committed to these values, many Cubans see the sociopolitical process as still “in the making.” For a politician—of Cuba's youngest generation—the future of the revolution depends on the leadership's moral authority, an ideologically based social consensus independent of access to material consumption, and the role of the socialist state in guaranteeing income distribution and public property. But most young citizens would like Cuba to become a more developed nation with a higher life standard and a more equitable distribution of wealth, a society free of the material deprivation and ethical erosion brought about by the economic crisis, one that offers more opportunity for constant rethinking of the system. Furthermore, these young citizens would like an independent country that is respected and valued on the world stage. Fulfillment of these goals will have to strike a balance between reasons of national pride and popular demand.