Syds van der Es

s2196115

The relationship forged between Algeria and Cuba during their fight against imperialism is a
topic that already fascinated me prior to taking the course. In The Romance of Revolutionary
Transatlanticism: Cuban-Algerian Relations James Byrne explores this history and the specifics
of their political relationships. Both countries had previously fallen victim to imperialism and
bonded over their mutual resistance to it. I thought it was really interesting that despite the
obvious geographical gap between these countries, their ideologies transcended borders. Being
able to produce an intricate network o transnational and global solidarity. As Byrne explains it,
these transatlantic networks were intellectual and ideological, exchanging political theories,
revolutionary ideologies and strategies. Being able to engage in such an intellectual dialogue
changed the foundation of their respective revolutions. Activists and various Solidarity
movements also engaged in dialogue, greatly strengthening the bonds of the countries.
The succes model of the Cuban socialist revolution served as an inspiration for
the Alergian revolution in various ways. By successfully overthrowing US funded dictatorship of
Flgencia Batista, the alergians were shown colonial powers could successfully be defeated. The
Cuban revolution proved the power of an organized guerilla movement and its power to regain
independence. Moreover specific guerilla tactics were passed down to the Algerian
revolutionaries. Allowing the to follow their model and quickly mobilize their forces. The marxist
theory that formed the foundation for the decision making of the Cuban revolution was also
mirrored. The focus on the redistribution of wealth and land, nationalization of industry and
creation of social welfare programs. Thus, according to Byrne, the Cuban revolution essentially
provided the Alergian revolutionaries with a blueprint to follow. What I thought was really
intersting is the focus that was put on the cultural and intellectual exchange. Explaining the role
artists and activists had during both revolutions. Talking about how things like Cuban literature,
film and other art forms influenced Algerian revolutionaries. Cuban movies showed the power of
cinema as a tool for political and social commentary. Algerian artists drew inspiration from this
and mirror their cinematic and narrative techniques to portray their political messaging. This
played a huge rol in spreading awareness, garnering support and mobilizing revolutionaries.
The particular for of cultural expression highlighted in Cuban cinema incorporated a variety of
different cultures and identities. This resonated with Algerian revolutionaries struggle with their
own national identity. This provided them with a model for cultural resilience and taking pride in
reclaiming your cultural heritage.In my opinion texts like there highlight the strength of this
course overal. Shifting way from the overly abstract and theoretical and instead showcasing
what everyday forms resistance look like. Stories of historically marginalized people aren’t
usually discussed with this much attention and detail in other courses. Transnational
organizations are often written out of history, Byrne offers readers a more accurate and
complete narrative. Which I believe to be key in dismantling imperial power structures.