Latin Lovers: Teeming Cuban Culture in the Sunshine State

With the United States being known as the “Melting Pot,” it’s no surprise that the presence of various cultural groups can be seen throughout the country’s wide expanse. With such a high level of diversity, we are also able to see some ethnic groups clustering in certain areas. Florida, for example, is a region where Latin culture is very prominent. Miami, Florida, holds the largest Cuban-American population in the United States and is known to have one of the highest percentages of Spanish speakers.

Getting off the plane and into the Miami airport, it was interesting to see the integration of Latin, more specifically Cuban culture, in the area. You could almost feel the blending of two cultures; with enticing empanada stands being situated right next to Starbucks and with the Spanish language that could be heard throughout the airport almost as much as, if not more than, the English language. The assimilation of Latin culture did not stop there. Once we left the airport, the influence of Latin culture only appeared more eminent in the plethora of restaurants seen throughout the region. But this begs the question, why is Cuban culture so prominent in this part of the country?

In 1959, when Fidel Castro gained power in Cuba, there was an influx of Cuban immigrants that sought refuge in the United States. Being only 90 nautical miles from Cuba, Florida became the home for many fleeing immigrants. Many Cubans believed their stay would be temporary but with the failed attempt to end Castro's revolution, the short-term stay became more permanent. In addition to this, the Cuban community grew larger with the Mariel Boatlift in 1980. 

With this growing community, the Cuban culture began to gain a foothold in Florida. Soon enough businesses were opened and successfully began to transform the previous culture found in Miami.   From introducing traditions and staple recipes to increasing the frequency of Spanish speakers in the region, the Cuban community encapsulated their culture within Florida's landscape and was able to thrive. This enabled the rich culture that we are able to see today.