Contextualization

The Cuban Revolution is a rich and multifaceted subject of study that permeates across disciplines of History, Geography, and Social Studies. It is an intricate examination of social, economic, political, and cultural issues on both local and global scales. This project will not only seek to explore the revolution itself, but also to analyze its effects and reverberations throughout Cuban society and the global stage.

Occurring between the years of 1953 and culminating in the overthrow of dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959, the Cuban Revolution drastically altered the social, economic, and political landscape of Cuba, and had an immense impact on Latin America and the world. Under the leadership of Fidel Castro, the revolution implemented communist policies that challenged the dominance of the United States in the region and led to a period of prolonged tension and conflict, colloquially known as the Cold War.

The project you will embark on will explore various aspects of this Revolution. Not only will you learn the timeline of events, you will also investigate the key roles played by revolutionary leaders like Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and others; the external influences of countries such as the Soviet Union and the United States; and the motivations that led to the Revolution's inception and eventual success. From guerrilla warfare in the Sierra Maestra mountains to grand speeches at the United Nations, this transformative movement encompasses a wide spectrum of events.

Importance of Study

The Cuban Revolution is a significant event in global history for several reasons. By analyzing these events, we can better understand how power struggles can change the face of a nation, how outside ideologies can influence the course of a country's history, and how decisions made in the heat of a revolution can have unforeseen and long-lasting effects.

Furthermore, the Revolution played a central role in the history of the Cold War. It was the catalyst for the Cuban Missile Crisis, one of the tensest moments of the Cold War, when the world stood on the brink of nuclear war.

Performance Activity - "Cuban Revolution: A Theatrical Investigation"

Project Goal

This project is designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary and immersive learning experience surrounding the Cuban Revolution. The idea is to explore this historical topic through the medium of a theatrical performance, in which students will research, write, rehearse, and perform a play. In addition to learning the theoretical concepts and historical facts, students will walk away from this project with valuable practical skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

Detailed Project Description

Working in groups of 3-5 people, you will first thoroughly research the Cuban Revolution, from the conditions leading up to its inception, through major battles and events, and on to its impact on the global political landscape. Your research should encompass historical facts, sociopolitical issues, revolutionary leaders, international alliances and tensions, and more.

After the research phase, you will work to develop a script for a play that covers the Cuban Revolution's key events and themes. Your play should be structured in a way that addresses various theoretical concepts as well.

The next step is the production of the play: designing sets and costumes and holding rehearsals. The play will be performed for the class at the culmination of the project.

Required Materials

• Textbooks and research materials.
• Computer with internet access for further research.
• Costume and set design materials (paper, fabric, paint, etc.).
• Rehearsal and performance space.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research: Using the suggested resources and any others you can find, thoroughly research the Cuban Revolution and its major themes.
2. Scriptwriting: Based on your research, write a script for a play that covers the main events and ideas of the Cuban Revolution.
3. Production: Design your set, costumes, and assign parts to each group member. Begin rehearsing your performance.
4. Performance: The play should be performed in front of the class by the end of the project.

Project Deliverables

At the end of this project, each group must submit:

1. A completed script of your play, including all scenes and dialogue. Discuss how your script connects to the theoretical concepts you studied.

2. A recording of your theatrical performance if possible, or still images from your rehearsals and performance.

3. A written report including:

   • Introduction: Provide background on the Cuban Revolution, its historical significance, and your motivations for approaching it through a theatrical performance.
   • Body: Give a detailed overview of the research you conducted, discuss the theoretical concepts you addressed, and provide a detailed account of your play's production process. Additionally, each group member should do a self-assessment, discussing the challenges and successes of the project and the strengths and weaknesses of your group's performance.
   • Conclusion: Offer your concluding thoughts on what you learned from this project, the significance of the historical event you studied, and the skills you developed along the way.
   • Bibliography: List all sources consulted, both for background knowledge and performance creation.

This project will take approximately two weeks to complete in class and at home.