Cuba secured its independence on May 20, 1902, but the island doesn't celebrate it. Here's why
Cuba gained its independence on May 20, 1902, but the date is not celebrated by the socialist government. The Cuban government views this date as associated with U.S. intervention and imperialism rather than true independence. Instead, they commemorate January 1, 1959, as their true Independence Day, marking the revolution's success against dictatorship.
- ▪Cuba's independence was achieved after a series of wars, culminating in 1902.
- ▪The Platt Agreement allowed U.S. intervention in Cuban affairs, which is viewed negatively by the current government.
- ▪Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that May 20 represents intervention and frustration, not celebration.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onCuba secured its independence on May 20, 1902, but the island doesn't celebrate it. Here's whyCuba's independence on May 20, 1902, isn't celebrated by its socialist governmentByDÁNICA COTO Associated PressMay 20, 2026, 5:57 PM1:43Passengers ride in a bicycle taxi adorned with the national flags representing the U.S., Cuba and the Dominican Republic, in Havana, Cuba, Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
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