ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Culture of Cuba

Cuba is a Caribbean country with a very unique culture. It has been influenced by the native people who lived on the island before the Europeans arrived, as well as by different European countries that have controlled the island through its history. Today, the culture of Cuba is a mix of all these countries and experiences.

One of the key features of Cuban culture is music. Music is very important in Cuban culture and has been influenced by styles like African drums, European instruments like the guitar, and more. Every type of Cuban music has its own distinct flavor, from the fast rhythms of salsa to the slow rhythms of rumba. Many Cuban songs have become very popular in many other countries around the world.

Food is also a big part of Cuban culture. Cubans eat a lot of rice and beans which is called 'Moros y Cristianos' or 'Moors and Christians'. Other ingredients are plantains, pork and beef, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Many of these ingredients are cooked together in big pots to make a thick stew called 'Cuminbalal'.

Cuba is also a very religious country, with a strong Catholic faith. People gather in churches to attend services and they celebrate festivals around saints and other religious events with much music and dancing.

Cubans also love to dance and enjoy nightlife. They have their own distinct dances like the 'cha-cha-cha', 'rumba', 'salsa' and 'mambo', which are also danced to Cuban and other Latin American music. Dancing at night is a popular activity and it is very common to find people in the streets dancing and having a good time.

All of these aspects and more make Cuba a truly unique place with a culture unlike any other in the world.