Reconcentration Policy

Definition

The Reconcentration Policy was a strategy used by the Spanish in Cuba during the Cuban War of Independence (1895-1898). It involved moving large numbers of people into concentration camps to prevent them from supporting rebels.

Analogy

Think of it like a school principal putting all the students who are known to cause trouble into one classroom, so they can't influence or disrupt other students.

Related terms

Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, triggered by American intervention in the Cuban War of Independence.

Cuban Revolution: A successful armed revolt led by Fidel Castro that overthrew the U.S.-backed dictator Fulgencio Batista of Cuba in 1959.

Guantanamo Bay Naval Base: A United States military base located on 45 square miles of land and water at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba which was leased for use as a coaling and naval station following the Spanish-American War.