Freemasonry in Cuba

Freemasonry is described as the oldest and largest organisation in the world, with over three million members. It was started in London, in 1717 as a group of uniting people of good character. In late 1900, the beliefs a ...

Freemasonry is described as the oldest and largest organisation in the world, with over three million members. It was started in London, in 1717 as a group of uniting people of good character. In late 1900, the beliefs around this organisation revolved around conspiracy theories of undercover operations and negative contribution to the society. Nairn (2012) states that the Cuban Freemasonry is unique from others operating in other regions since it is openly endorsed in the communist nation. It played a significant role in the original Cuban revolution. Fidel Castro, the leader behind the revolution in Cuba, took refuge in Masonic lodges (Nairn, 2012). After the rebellion, Castro`s government gained ownership of mason buildings in Cuba and permitted its operation in the country. History of Cuban Freemasonry and Revolution Cuba gained its first colonial interest in 1492 when Christopher Columbus discovered the island during his first voyage (Nairn, 2012). In the mid-1700s, the island was colonised by Spain and ruled by a Governor. Spain allied with the French government against Britain which was also interested with Cuba. In 1762, Britain defeated the Spain- France alliance and gained control over Cuba. According to Louis (2014), the British government encouraged trade activities in Cuba with other colonies in the Caribbean and North America regions. The primary trade commodities were food, horses, and slaves from western Africa who provided free labour in Cuban sugar plantations. Later, Britain formed a treaty with Spain where the latter exchanged Florida for Cuba island. In 1868, the Cuban people started their war of gaining independence (Nairn, 2012). A treaty was formed with the Spanish colonial government to free slaves who fought during this war. After a few years, Cuba was economically dependent on the US, although it was under Spanish rule. The United States fed the island with finances for sugar, tobacco business and mining operations.