Description

This is a quick read.

Racism in Cuba & The Negro League Presence chronicles Fred’s seven years of research to present this information to readers.  Cuba is a multi-culturally society, however while the Afro presence is large only approximately 10% classify themselves as Blacks.  In reality, like most countries that have more than one ethnic group institutionalized racism rears its ugly head.  It is obvious when you analyze basic facts such as employment, education, housing and the privilege non-blacks have.

Baseball started in Cuba in 1874.  In 1920 the Negro League created a successful organization for professional baseball players who could not participate in the Major Leagues.  This was due to Jim Crow laws were legal which prevented integration.  Despite Cuba’s society being defined as racist, they welcomed Negro League players to participate in the Cuban Leagues.  In doing so, Negro League players helped the Cuban players develop into better ballplayers.  Sadly, this all ended in 1947 as Jackie Robinson joined the Major Leagues, as well as Fidel Castro terminating organized baseball in 1961.