Population density: 102/km2 (264/mi2)
Main languages spoken: Spanish Ethnic tension in Cuba is minimal. About 70% of Cubans are of Spanish descent, mainly from the settlers, but also from the more recent influx of exiles from Franco's Spain. The black population is descended from the slaves and from migrants from neighboring states, in particular Jamaica. Living standards in Cuba fell dramatically in the early 1990s after the collapse of the east European communist bloc, previously its main trading partner, and rationing for most basic foodstuffs was subsequently introduced. The "dollarization" of the economy in recent years has led to great divisions between those who survive on pesos and the more than 50% of the population who have access to dollars. Since the early 1990s the number of those trying to leave, legally or otherwise, has risen markedly. An increasing number of women are playing a prominent role in politics, the professions, and the armed forces. Child-care facilities are widespread. THE URBAN/RURAL POPULATION SPLIT
 RELIGIOUS PERSUASION
 ETHNIC MAKEUP
 POPULATION AGE BREAKDOWN
 From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004 | 
