| Cuba was colonized by Spain in 1511 following the landing of Christopher
Columbus. Spain turned the colony into a supply base for further
expeditions to Mexico and Florida. Within decades of the Spanish
arrival, harsh treatment and abuse of the native peoples drove them to
the edge of extinction. Spain was forced to rely on imported black
slaves to operate the mines and plantations of Cuba and turned the island
into a slave trade center for much of North America.
Jose Marti International Airport outside La Habana
The aging 737 owned by Groupo Taca comes in low over fields alternating
between muted greens and the deep red-brown of Cuban soil. Both roads
and fields below seem empty.
The wheels touch the runway. Aging Soviet jetliners sit beside
the tarmac. Some seem almost discarded - watching as Boeing and Airbus
products steal their home. Others wait for passengers and cargos
not visible from our plane.
This flight continues on to Latin America, and only a few passengers
disembark. We appear to be the only citizens of the United States. |
