History of Cuba History of Cuba The island of Cuba was inhabited by various Mesoamerican cultures prior to the arrival of the Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus in 1492. After Columbus' arrival, Spain conquered Cuba and appointed Spanish governors to rule in Havana. In 1762, Havana was briefly occupied by Great Britain, before being returned to Spain in exchange for Florida. A series of rebellions during the 19th century failed to end the Spanish rule. However, the Spanish–American War resulted in a Spanish withdrawal from the island in 1898, and following three-and-a-half years of subsequent US military rule, Cuba gained formal independence in 1902.
Santiago de Cuba (baseball) between the two cities (La Habana and Santiago de Cuba) dating back to the era when Cuba was a colony of Spain two centuries ago. The Super Classic of the Cuban National Series between Santiago de Cuba and Industriales takes place six times per season. The "Avispas" (Wasps) won three straight titles during the seasons ending in 1999, 2000, and 2001. The club also won the title during the season ending in 2008. Santiago de Cuba sent only one player to the 2006 World Baseball Classic, pitcher Ormari Romero. But to the 2009 World Baseball Classic Santiago de Cuba sent