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THEN AND NOW: Photos show how Cuba went from a 1950s tourist destination to a country plagued by blackouts

Cuba has changed dramatically since Castro came to power in 1959 — from Havana tourism to life amid shortages, blackouts, and economic crisis.

  • Cuba transformed into communist state in 1959 under Fidel Castro's leadership
  • Havana, once glamorous tourist destination, now faces shortages and blackouts
  • US embargo since 1962 limits Cuba's foreign trade and investment

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