Lopez ends career. The economic boom of sugar in Cuba following the Haitian revolution delays independence movements. Harsh treatment of slaves. Creoles become increasingly discontent with corrupt Spanish officials. Turn toward the U.S. market.
Creoles see U.S. annexation as insurance against abolition.
1860's - Creoles reject reform proposals. Spanish government was strewn with internal dissention and economic troubles 1868, in Yara, landowners declare independence, start the war. Lasts until 1878. Accepted a peace, but independence withheld. Abolition becomes a goal after 1865 because benefits of joining U.S. outweigh losses of emancipation.