The Cuba Libre, one of the world's most popular cocktails, has a history as taseful as the drink itself. It's name, meaning "free Cuba," was a battle cry of sorts during the Spanish-American War in which Cuba gained its independence from Spain.
More commonly known in the U.S. as a Rum and Coke, the beverage got its start around 1900 when then Colonel Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders arrived in large groups on the island. The soldiers alledgedly brought a supply of Coca-Cola with them which had become popular among the Cubans.
Legend has it that while celebrating victory at an American bar in Havana, Captain Russell of the U.S. Army had ordered a Bacardi and Coke with lime. Other soldiers followed suit, and Russell toasted, "Cuba Libre!" to a free Cuba. The rest is history, and over a century later a Rum and Coke is still a popular cocktail worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba Libre Cocktails
What is the origin of the Cuba Libre cocktail?
The Cuba Libre cocktail originated around 1900 during the Spanish-American War when American soldiers, including Colonel Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders, arrived in Cuba. It was named as a battle cry meaning "free Cuba" during the island's fight for independence from Spain.
Why is the Cuba Libre also known as a Rum and Coke?
The Cuba Libre is commonly known as a Rum and Coke in the U.S. because it is made by mixing rum with Coca-Cola, a popular beverage brought to Cuba by American soldiers during the war.
Who is credited with popularizing the Cuba Libre cocktail?
Captain Russell of the U.S. Army is credited with popularizing the Cuba Libre when he ordered a Bacardi and Coke with lime at an American bar in Havana and toasted "Cuba Libre!" to celebrate Cuban independence.
What does the phrase "Cuba Libre" mean?
The phrase "Cuba Libre" translates to "free Cuba," symbolizing the Cuban fight for independence from Spanish rule during the Spanish-American War.
How long has the Cuba Libre been a popular cocktail?
The Cuba Libre has been a popular cocktail for over a century, maintaining its status as a widely enjoyed drink worldwide since its creation around 1900.
What ingredients are traditionally used in a Cuba Libre cocktail?
The traditional Cuba Libre cocktail is made with rum, Coca-Cola, and lime, combining to create the classic Rum and Coke flavor with a citrus twist.
