Abstract
The thesis is divided into several chapters. Chapter One examines the role of Chinese migrants who came to Cuba as laborers and stayed to become merchants and revolutionaries for an independent Cuba is explored. This migration, while small in terms of actual numbers, did have an impact on Cuban society but it did not lead to the maintenance of strong ties between China and Cuba over the long term. The next two chapters center on the Cold War-Chapter Two on the early Cold War and then Chapter Three on the late Cold War- and assess not only the action of China and Cuba as players in this drama, but also the integral role played by the United States and the Soviet Union. Finally, Chapter Four discusses the post-Cold War reality. In this present state, China has emerged as a world power, no longer having to react to the policies and actions of the United States or to Russia, unless it is in its interest to do so. In this segment, economics has replaced ideology as the primary determinant for global alliances. China has embraced this reality with extraordinary success, and because of its economic superpower status, it can influence its neighbors and various regions to bend to its will. Cuba has yet to be able to solidify its economic footing, still seeking alliances with whoever will offer it aid and so has become a less influential member than previously of the emerging nations of the world.