ANTH 221(S) Race and Class in the Cuban Revolution*
This course examines the reproduction and transformation of racial and national ideologies in the context of an ostensibly race-free socialist state. Since the Revolution of 1959 the Marxist Cuban state has argued that racism is no more than a by-product of class divisions. What, then, might we learn about the interrelationships of race and class from an ethnographically detailed study of a place where for four decades racial ideologies have been subordinated to a class revolution, understood in Marxist terms? How has a particularly confrontational international context and state policy affected national consciousness, and to what extent is cubanidad (Cubanness) a counterweight to racial, class or other divisions? While our primary focus is on the contemporary situation, we will also consider the historical context, as well as competing anthropological approaches to cultural classification (particularly in Latin America). We will also ponder the proper theoretical niche for charismatic political authority, and attempt to theorize the fundamental characteristics of state socialism (drawing both on Cuban and eastern European resources). Finally, we will consider questions about racial and national identities raised by the Cuban enclave in Miami. Can one be Cuban in Miami and still belong in Havana? Course Requirements: The course will include approximately equal time for lecture and discussion of readings and other course materials. Grading will be on the basis of a brief written response to each week's readings (30%), an in-class midterm exam (30%), and a final 12-15 page essay (40%), on a topic previously approved by the instructor. Enrollment limit: 15 (expected: 12).