In 1912 Partido Independiente de Color attempted to establish a separate black republic in Oriente Province.Perhaps because the group lacked sufficient weaponry, the main tactic was to set businesses and private residences on fire.The movement was a failure and General Monteagudo suppressed the rebels with considerable bloodshed. Historians differ on the interpretation of this circumstance.
Some view it as suppression of Black rights, others as an attempt at racial cleansing and secession on part of the Black activists.
