Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico: Unifying the Antillean Identity

In the complex tapestry of the Caribbean, the idea of unification has long captured the imaginations of visionary leaders. If Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico were to merge as one, historical and cultural figures have proposed various names and visions for this united entity. One prominent idea was the Antillean Confederation, a concept fueled by the shared heritage and aspirations of the Spanish Caribbean.

The Vision for Unification

The Antillean Confederation or Confederación Antillana was a fervent idea proposed by Ramón Emeterio Betances, a figure deeply rooted in the history of both Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Betances envisioned not just a political union but a broader effort to preserve the sovereignty and well-being of these nations from the influence of European colonialism.

Supporters of the Antillean Confederation

The idea of the Antillean Confederation found support from a group of influential leaders and intellectuals:

Eugenio María de Hostos, known as the Citizen of the Americas Gregorio Luperón, a hero of the Dominican Restoration War Jose Martí, often called the Apostle of Cuban Independence José de Diego Ramón Emeterio Betances

These leaders came together, often meeting in Puerto Plata (San Felipe de Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic, to discuss the possibility of creating a unified entity that would represent their shared aspirations and heritage. The Confederación Antillana was meant to be a confederation of island nations, emphasizing a united front against external influences and a collective effort towards progress and self-governance.

The Concept of the Greater Antilles

At the heart of the vision for the Antillean Confederation lies the concept of the Greater Antilles. This region includes the largest islands in the Caribbean, including Cuba, Hispaniola (shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti), Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. While the term traditionally refers to all the larger Caribbean islands, it has also been the focal point for discussions of unification and regional cooperation.

A New Narrative for the Americas

The Confederación Antillana was not just about political unification; it was a broader movement to reshape the narrative of the Americas. Inspired by the Monroe Doctrine, which promoted the belief that the Americas should be free of European influence, Betances proposed a new phrase: Antilles for the Antilleans. This new slogan underscored the idea that the Caribbean was a region distinct and unique from the larger American continent.

The leaders of the Antillean Confederation believed that their unique cultural heritage and historical context made the Caribbean islands a vital and distinct region. The concept of a united entity aimed to sever ties with colonial powers, promote regional cooperation, and establish a new political framework that would benefit the inhabitants of these islands.

The Legacy of the Antillean Confederation

Peculiarly, the vision for the Antillean Confederation came to a defining end with the death of its key proponent, José Martí, and the culmination of the Spanish-American War. Despite its eventual failure to materialize, the idea left a lasting legacy. It inspired a collective identity that transcends modern political boundaries, fostering a sense of unity and shared history among the peoples of the Caribbean region.

Historical Context and References

To explore more about this unique historical figure and the concept of the Antillean Confederation, one can refer to the following resources:

Confederación Antillana - Wikipedia (English version) Confederación Antillana - Wikipedia (Spanish version)

These resources provide a detailed exploration of the historical context, the key supporters, and the ideological underpinnings of the Antillean Confederation, offering insights into a more inclusive and interconnected Caribbean identity.