CUBA BLACK MARKET

WHAT CUBA IS REALLY LIKE

Cuba has long been known for its complex and intricate black market economy. While the island nation has experienced significant economic and social changes in recent years, the black market continues to thrive. In this article, we will explore the nature of the Cuban black market, its historical roots, and its current state.

Historical Context

The origins of Cuba's black market can be traced back to the early days of the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s. During this time, the government of Fidel Castro nationalized many industries and businesses, leading to a significant reduction in the number of private enterprises in the country. As a result, many Cubans turned to the black market as a means of survival.

The black market continued to grow during the 1960s and 1970s, as the Cuban government became increasingly repressive and authoritarian. The government's strict control over the economy, combined with the country's isolation from the rest of the world, created an environment in which the black market thrived.

Current State

Today, the Cuban black market is a complex and multifaceted economy that operates alongside the official government-run economy. The black market includes everything from street vendors selling pirated DVDs to large-scale operations smuggling goods in and out of the country.

One of the main drivers of the black market in Cuba is the country's dual currency system. The Cuban…