Ilow CUBANS LOOK UPON AMERICAN EDUCATION.
SSa^
I
WELVE year- ago. most Cubans knew little about (hi- country. The
educated people knew, of course, its history and geographic situa¬
tion, but they were not in contact and familiar with this country
until alter the Spanish-American war. The best thing the Ameri¬
cans did in Cuba was to enforce education throughout the island. Schools
were established in cities, village-, towns and into the smallest rural districts.
Teachers were chosen of the most select and educated of Cuban society. Some
of them entered upon the work enthusiastically because they knew il meant
an advance step for their country.
There are three individuals whom I cannot pas- without personal men¬
tion. Who does not know them? Americans are proud of them, and Cuban-
are grateful for the wonders they have worked. These three noted characters
are Gen. Leonard Wood. Governor of the Island at that lime, Mr. C. Frye, Su¬
perintendent of Public Schools, and Mr. Mark Ilanna, Public [instruction
Commissioner. They did the best for rapid development of public instruc¬
tion^ Now. we Cuban.- observe all the rules, methods, systems and proceed¬
ings of the American Pedagogue. The English language is taught in all the
schools, and in private and public institutions.
Before the Spanish-American war very few Cubans had the opportunity
of an American education. First, because they had no idea of what character
of people and education they could receive over here. Must of them had to go
to Spain. France and other countries. Now the Cubans as a whole know pretty
well what kind of education they can receive here, and about 40 per cent, of
Cuba's young people are coming to the United States seeking their education.
Some of them lo go into the professional field, others to learn English.
Cuba, by her topographical situation is very close lo the United Stales.
and her commercial relations with this country are increasing more rapidly
every day. As a mailer of course, Cubans are anxious lo get more acquainted
with the American people, and today they are Irving to adopt the use of the
English language In get in close personal touch with the Americans. They
are gifted with a clear intelligence, and their affection for American people i-
so intense that they air welcome and appreciated wherever they go.
Il has been my privilege lo visit a number of Northern colleges, acquiring
some experience from same and I bey no doubt are good universities of greal
reputation, but I feel I should express my opinion about the Southern Denial
College and will be sincere in setting forth my views.
In Cuba, Ibis institution is considered to be one of the most famous and
. reputable in the United Slides, and my experience for Hirer years as a student
in Ibis college substantiates our country's opinion. Its Faculty is composed
of the best type of educated and refined gentlemen in ibi- country. All of
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