[zeestephen]

There are two distinct classes of Cubans in America.

Around 1960, almost the entire Cuban professional class fled the island and came to south Florida.

Most of them were direct ancestors of Spaniards, all of them were penniless, they integrated instantly into the American culture, they had an astounding work ethic, they voted Republican, and they completely transformed the economy of Dade County in 15 years.

Around 1979, the Mariel refugees arrived.

Many were Black, many were ex-cons, and most of them had limited education and limited skills.

[AEMILIUS PAULUS]

I had a lot of business dealings with Cubans in the 1970’s. I know what you mean about the racial division. One older guy I had extensive dealings with had blue eyes and silver blond hair-he was an older man. I developed mixed feelings about them.

[Bratch]

Around 1979, the Mariel refugees arrived.

Jimmy Carter.

The gift that keeps on giving.

[Cyropaedia]

The Mariel boat lift was the turning point.

It's why Obama carried the Cuban-American vote in Florida by 20 points last year.