The dawn of May 1, 1898, breaks like any other over Manila Bay. But as the first light touches the horizon, a thunderous roar shatters the morning calm—the deep boom of naval artillery. You witness an extraordinary sight: the proud Spanish fleet faces unfamiliar warships flying the stars and stripes. Smoke and flame erupt from both battle lines as history pivots on the morning tide. You are witnessing the moment when one empire's three-century reign ends.

Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, has long captivated the world's attention with its rich history, vibrant culture, and complex political landscape. Located just 90 miles off the coast of Florida, this nation of 11 million people has played an outsized role in global affairs, particularly during the Cold War era. From its days as a Spanish colony to its current status as one of the world's few remaining communist states, Cuba remains a mystery to many.