Protestantism

» Brian Tubbs - Batista and Castro

For example, if you're talking about religion and capitalism, Batista was much more supportive of both than Castro.

Cuba under Batista seemed to enjoy more religious freedom than it did under Fidel Castro - and now under Raul Castro.

And, yes, Batista was definitely more supportive of free market capitalism and individual property rights than Castro. Of course, Batista was primarily in it for Batista and his chronies.

But, if you're talking about education and health-care, then Castro has been much more supportive of both than Batista.

The expansion of education opportunities and health care coverage to all of Cuba was and is one of the ideals / goals of the "Revolution."

However, Cuba is a two-tiered nation.

There's the Cuba that the Castro clan wants you and others to see (which is the Cuba that the mainstream news media reports on - and the Cuba that the powers-that-be in Cuba enjoy) and then there's the Cuba that is fighting for its survival. The majority of the people in Cuba live in that tier.

If you doubt my appraisal of Cuba, ask yourself why so many people have risked (and given) their lives over the years to LEAVE Cuba. Ask yourself why there's never been a free, fair, and truly open election since Fidel Castro took power. Ask yourself why there are known "political prisoners" in Cuba - why the govt sees a need to squelch dissent and jail those who oppose them.

Face it. Cuba is an island prison in abject poverty. And Castro is the man to blame.