| |
| 1921–25 |
| |
| Alfredo Zayas, president. Crowder was recalled (1923). Crowder's meddling in Cuban politics, however, combined with rampant government corruption and a collapse in Cuba's monocultural sugar economy, helped to revive Cuban nationalism. Under Zayas the Cuban government gradually adopted a policy of opposition to U.S. interference. | 1 |
| |
| 1925–33 |
| |
| Liberal GERARDO MACHADO (1871–1939), president. He attempted to solve the problems of the sugar industry by restricting production; also stimulated industrial development with higher tariffs, and promoted public works and sanitation. This period saw a marked increase in political violence and unrest. Machado used assassinations and strong-arm tactics to silence opposition leaders and striking workers on several occasions. In 1928 he extended his political control by outlawing the opposition party of Carlos Mendieta and having himself reelected. This move aroused much opposition, which was enhanced by economic difficulties arising from the world depression. Workers' movements, based in urban factories and on the rural sugar plantations, grew in both size and militancy in response to this situation. | 2 |
| |
| 1930, May |
| |
| A general strike led by radical workers and student groups failed to topple the Machado government. In the aftermath political assassinations and repression increased. | 3 |
| |
| Sept |
| |
| After the killing of a student leader, students at the University of Havana organized a demonstration, which led to the closing of the university and firing of hundreds of teachers. | 4 |
| |
| |
