Special Period

Special Period refers to an era of economic crisis in Cuba that began in 1989 and extended through the mid-1990s. This period was characterized by severe shortages of basic goods and services, including food and petroleum, due to the dissolution of the Soviet Union, which had been Cuba's primary trading partner.

Background

The Special Period in Time of Peace, or simply the Special Period, was officially declared by the Cuban government in 1990. The term "Special Period" was used by the Cuban government to describe the crisis period in Cuban history following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The Soviet Union had been providing Cuba with annual subsidies amounting to approximately $4-6 billion, and its dissolution led to a sudden drop in the availability of imported goods.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of the Special Period was severe. The Cuban economy contracted by 35% between 1989 and 1993. The country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fell, and the living standards of the Cuban people declined significantly. The lack of petroleum led to a decrease in industrial and agricultural production, resulting in food shortages and rationing. The Cuban government implemented several measures to mitigate the effects of the crisis, including opening up the economy to foreign investment and legalizing the use of the United States dollar in business transactions.

Social Impact

The social impact of the Special Period was also significant. The lack of food and basic goods led to malnutrition and a decline in health standards. The Cuban government implemented a series of social programs to alleviate the effects of the crisis, including urban agriculture programs and the promotion of bicycling as a means of transportation. Despite these efforts, the Special Period is often associated with a time of hardship and struggle for the Cuban people.

Legacy

The legacy of the Special Period continues to shape Cuba's economic and social policies. The crisis led to significant changes in the Cuban economy, including a shift towards a more market-oriented economic model and an increased emphasis on tourism as a source of revenue. The social programs implemented during the Special Period, such as urban agriculture and the promotion of bicycling, continue to be important aspects of Cuban society.