Rum and Coke

Drink History: The Cuba Libre

                I have enjoyed Rum and Coke since my Uncle introduced it to me as his favorite drink. His recipe doesn’t encompass what most people consider standard portions, since it is just a full glass of Rum with a touch of soda for coloring. From the moment the drink was introduced to me it has become my go-to for any bar or relaxing occasions (although bottom shelf Vodka shots have been a known alternate). It’s simple, easy to make, and easy to drink. But I did not understand the importance of the drink’s beginnings until I discovered its alternate name. I first heard the other name for Rum and Coke, the Cuba Libre, while studying abroad in Ecuador. I became infatuated with the name since the English translation is ‘Cuba Freedom’ and of course looked up the history to discover its glorious Cuban-American Heritage.

                The true beginnings reach back to the 1860s when Facundo Bacardi, the founder of Bacardi Rum (shocking I know), began mass production of low cost White Rum. The spread of White Rum was influential to the world of alcohol, as White Rum’s taste could be better manipulated, covered, and enriched when mixing a drink than using traditional dark rum. The next invention which would eventually comprise the famed concoction was that of Coca-Cola by John Pemberton, a pharmacist from Georgia, who created the world’s most popular soda in 1886. With the two main ingredients created, their paths were destined to cross in what the United States refers to as the Spanish-American War.

When Cuba began its struggle against its colonial oppressors, their overlords attempted to put down the fervor for freedom as many imperial powers have before, mass executions and population concentration. The United States could not just stand by and watch their colonial brethren be abused, so with the help of yellow journalism, the US intervened on behalf of the Cubans with the late, great Teddy Roosevelt participating in the fight. After a short struggle the Spanish capitulated and the Cubans were free.

  In what might be divine intervention the popular American soft drink and the native Bacardi Rum were united under the same roof. Rum, Coke, and Lime Juice were combined in a monumental moment in a bar full of Soldiers and civilians celebrating victory. One Soldier proposed a toast “To Cuban Freedom”. Thus the Cuba Libre was born.