Topic > Learning for the Cuban and Nigerian Revolution

For developing regions, Latin America and Africa are some of the countries at the center of analyzing civil war onset and future prevention. Cuba, now a communist state, underwent political turmoil from leaders like Fidel Castro to gain its current government. Nigeria, a major oil power, has also faced ethnic conflicts arising from its diverse population. Both countries are still susceptible to future conflict, but learning from their history could easily prevent this from happening.Cuba: The Castro RevolutionThe Castro Revolution, which began in the early 1950s, resulted in huge numbers of casualties at the cost of one rebel victory. Then-Cuban President Fulgencio Batista was deposed and replaced with a revolutionary socialist state. Originally seized power by a military coup, he lost popularity during his second term and was heavily criticized for his dictatorial leadership which resulted in organized crime, high unemployment rates, and failing water infrastructure (Diaz-Briquets). Subsequently, Fidel Castro listed complaints against Batista for his corruption and private police force. Failing to get the desired response, Castro organized disgruntled members of the working class to overthrow the Batista regime. After a failed attempt and being imprisoned, the Castro brothers again attempted to stage an overthrow upon their release. Castro managed to find outside forces and support from Mexican exiles and even Che Guevera to support his revolution. After multiple failed battles, Castro's army was finally able to secure crucial points for the offensive and Batista fled the country, ceding power to the communist party. The ongoing conflict between the insurgents and the Batista military regime, as well as a multitude of human rights violations, make civil war and conflict a possibility in the near future. However, the goal of getting the United States to lift the embargo and its current seat on the Human Rights Council could alter Cuba's course and prevent history from repeating itself. In the case of Nigeria, conflicts arising from ethnic, religious and belief differences have resulted in wars in the region. While the insurgents have failed to change government policies, this makes the potential for future conflict an even higher possibility. However, increasing transparency in oil companies, taking preventative diplomatic measures from outside countries and addressing human rights abuses could ease tensions in a culturally and ethnically diverse country. Taking the necessary measures and changing policies in the two countries can prevent history from repeating itself.