Why is it said that Cuba looks like a sleeping alligator?

Cuba is known as the "Caiman of the Caribbean" because the shape of the largest island in the archipelago resembles that of a crocodile.

However, the story behind why Cuba is compared to a sleeping caiman is rich in symbolism.

The metaphor clearly relates to the aerial perspective of the island, its physical geography, and the way this territory is depicted on the map, but there is much more to it.

Cuba stretches from west to east in an elongated and narrow shape, gently curving south from the Pinar del Río region to the eastern part of the country. This shape resembles that of a crocodile at rest, with its tail in the west, its body in the center, and its head turned to the east.

Cubans have embraced this nickname without hesitation, as the crocodile is also a native animal. The image of the crocodile has become a symbol of resilience and adaptability, traits that reflect the spirit of the Cuban nation.

Why is Cuba referred to as a sleeping alligator?

Several poets have dedicated verses to Cuba, drawing inspiration from its physical geography, natural landscapes, and the beauty of its colors. Nicolás Guillén, in "Un largo lagarto verde," expressed:

This comparison highlights Cuba's connection to its natural surroundings, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes, ranging from beaches to mountains, where the vibrant green contrasts beautifully with the blue of the sea.

It also speaks metaphorically of a country that fights, that "shows its claws on the map," and that is awake, ready to strike. The work was published in the poetry collection "La paloma de vuelo popular" in 1958.

However, it was the poet, professor, and journalist Adolfo Martí Fuentes (Galicia, 1922-Havana, 2002) who instilled the idea of the sleeping caiman into the Cuban popular imagination. Some verses attributed to this author say:

The verses were studied in Cuban schools during the early decades of the regime, and over time, the image of the "sleeping caiman" became established.

It is a metaphor for waiting in calmness. The animal lies in peace during its sleep, therefore it serves as a warning that such tranquility can come to an end at any moment.

In July 2021, the people of Cuba took to the streets to protest against the regime due to ongoing blackouts, rising poverty, and a lack of freedoms. These were unprecedented popular protests, and the government responded with harsh repression.

Since then, many Cubans claim that Cuba is no longer a sleeping crocodile and will soon awaken from its long slumber to move forward with all the strength and cunning that this animal represents.