Presenting an objective, balanced view of Cuba, 80 distinguished scholars and researchers survey the country's tempestuous history from past to present. This wonderfully comprehensive 2-volume set also tells the stories of Cuban exiles in the United States and other countries. Over 700 entries are presented in 12 topical chapters: •National Symbols •Geography, the Environment, and Urbanization •History: the Colonial Period (Pre-Columbian Era to 1901) •History: the Republican Period (1902-1958) •History and Government: the Revolutionary Period (1959-) •Contemporary Economy and Society •Literature and the Social Sciences •Performing Arts •Plastic Arts •Popular Culture and Religion •Sports • The Cuban Diaspora Appendices include a chronology, more than 200 illustrations (many in color), photographs, maps, tables, graphs, historical and legal documents, U.S. laws relating to Cuba, and governors and presidents. This unique, thorough, and impartial reference set is ideal for high school and university students, scholars, and the general public.