Cuba is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. It is located south of Florida and east of Mexico. Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, and it is also home to 11 million people. It has beautiful beaches, friendly people, and a fascinating history. Cuba was a Spanish colony until the late 1800s when it won its independence. For much of the 20th century, it was ruled by Fidel Castro, a revolutionary leader who brought in many social and economic reforms, yet at the same time making it difficult for people to travel. Today, Cuba is still ruled by the Communist Party and is subject to many economic embargoes (trade restrictions) by other countries, making it hard for Cuba to get certain goods and services.