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Cuba US Relations

December 17, 2014 marked a dramatic shift in United States relations with Cuba. After over 50 years of a complete embargo, President Obama announced plans to normalize relations with the nearby island. Miami, Florida is the hub of the Cuban American community. From those who fled the revolution five decades years ago to those who have come recently - reaction to the president’s decision has been split. Listen to learn more about these reactions.
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CURRENT EVENT | December 5, 2016

Cuban Leader Fidel Castro's Long Legacy

Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro has died at age 90. Castro took power in the Cuban Revolution in 1959 and was in power for nearly 50 years leading the only communist state in the Western Hemisphere. He led a movement to overthrow Fulgencio Batista, Cuba's military dictator, and had wide support from Cubans. But there were flaws in his socialist system, and the economy, education, and health care systems fell into disrepair. Castro outlasted many U.S. presidents and their attempts to overthrow him. He was a skilled politician with a complex legacy, and a man determined to continue holding power whatever the costs. Listen to hear more about the leadership and life of Fidel Castro.

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Former Cuban Leader Fidel Castro Dies At Age 90

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11/26/2016

Listening Link (share with students)

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https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/798-cuban-leader-fidel-castros-long-legacy

Listening Comprehension Questions

How did Fidel Castro present his politics on his trip to Washington in 1959 and how did his style of government change over time?
What did Castro do to support poor people in Cuba? How much was communism a part of his policies?
How did Castro’s leadership change over the years he was in power?
What actions support the idea that Castro did not like people who disagreed with him?
Why did Castro set up such a large security system for himself?
What changes took place after power was transferred to Raul Castro in 2006?

Classroom Discussion Themes

In your opinion, could the events in Cuba’s past repeat themselves in another country?
Do you think a leader’s personality traits are more or less important than the policies proposed?

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