The Dark Chapter of the Cuban Revolution: The Soviet Union’s Collapse and Its aftermath

On the night of December 25, 1991, the Soviet Union officially ceased to exist. For Cuba, this was not just a political event but a catastrophic blow, as it represented an abrupt end to the economic support that had provided the foundation for the Cuban revolution. The period that followed was marked by the Cuban government’s desperate efforts to adapt to the new reality, known as the Special Period in Peace (Periodo Especial en Tiempo de Paz), a term that encapsulates the dire situation and the government's response.

From Night to Day: 80% of Export Products Vanished

The collapse of the Soviet Union was a shocking event for the Cuban government. Overnight, the country lost its major exporter, which constituted approximately 80% of its exports. This sudden loss of economic support left Cuba in a state of economic crisis that would last over a decade.

The government initially struggled to cope with the sudden changes. The first official acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation came in the form of a statement declaring that salaries were not sufficient to sustain a Cuban citizen. This led to a spontaneous proliferation of illegal activities and informal economies, as the government sought to provide for the people.

The Special Period: A Fight for Survival

The Special Period was a period of unprecedented hardship for the Cuban population. The term “time of peace” ironically contrasted with the reality of daily struggles. The government's response was predominantly grassroots, with individuals and communities finding innovative ways to survive. One such example was the case of the author's grandmother, who, alongside farmers, created handmade products like shoes and exchanged them for basic necessities.

This period was not just difficult but transformative. For many Cubans, it was a lecture in resilience. Even today, decades later, the memory remains fresh, with the government and people still wary of the potential return of such difficult times. The Special Period is a permanent reminder of the fragility of the Cuban economy and the lengths to which the population was willing to go to sustain the revolution.

The Castro Regime and the Soviet Union’s Fall

The collapse of the Soviet Union, a regime that Cuba had heavily relied on for economic support, left the Castro government in a difficult quandary. Fidel Castro, who had been the bankroller of the Cuban revolution, could not support its continued direction following the Soviet Union's collapse. In response, Castro announced a firm stance against the idea of democracy, declaring that “democracy was nothing but garbage.” This stance was a direct reflection of his determination to maintain the revolutionary path, even if it meant the government's continuing ineffectiveness.

Fidel Castro’s perspective on maintaining the revolution in the face of adversity is a testament to his unwavering commitment. However, his anticipation of the collapse and the inability to prepare adequately for the aftermath are topics of much debate. Critics argue that the regime’s failure to anticipate the Soviet Union’s fall is a significant blot on its governance.

Less Than Enthusiastic: Reflections on the Castro Regime’s Legacy

Many, including Javier Marrero, a Cuban living in Havana, wonder how to view a regime that appears inoperative and ill-prepared. Marrero’s affirmation of the Castro regime despite its shortcomings is a reflection of the complex reality of Cuban life. Despite the regime’s failures and the hardships faced during the Special Period, there is a sense of national pride and loyalty to the revolution.

The Castro regime’s response to the Soviet Union’s collapse is often viewed with a mix of skepticism and admiration. While there is a critical acknowledgment of the regime's failures in governance and foresight, there is also a recognition of the resilience and adaptability of the Cuban people. This duality is a crucial aspect of understanding the complex relationship between the regime and its people.

Conclusion

The collapse of the Soviet Union marked a severe reset for the Cuban Revolution. While the experience of the Special Period was a dark chapter, it also highlighted the Cuban people's unwavering resilience. Today, Cuba continues to navigate the challenges of transition and economic recovery, with the Soviet Union’s collapse serving as a lasting reminder of the need for continued adaptability and innovation.