The administrative and Executive power is vested in the appointed Council of Ministers. The President of the Council of Ministers is also President of the Council of State acting as head of both state and government. The People's Supreme Court has authority over the judicial system. Social and Economic Cuba's social security programs provide a wide range of benefits, including sickness, maternity, and work-injury benefits. There is also old age disability and survivor pensions.
Medical care is free to all citizens.
Breif History Christopher Columbus claimed Cuba for Spain in 1492, during his first voyage to the Americans. In 1511 Diego Velazquez established the first permanent Europeon settlement at Baracoa. Cuba was divided by the Spanish into seven municipalities. The colony became a staging area for expeditions to Central America. During the 17th century colonial life was rather difficult due to the raids and attacks from rival European powers.