Intelectuales y poder. Ensayos en torno a la república de las letras en el Perú e Hispanoamérica (ss. XVI–XX) (review)
However, not all Cuban fans accept the state-based discourse tied to state-sponsored athletic events, as "Cuban baseball is a constant contest in which the concept of cubanidad is waged" (p. 87). Consequently, while fans may agree on the centrality of baseball in cubanidad, they are "not a homogenous mob" (p. 128) and often differ on its meaning, a function of geography and/or social position. In essence, "there are multiple [contesting] Cuban identities" (p. 134), and "baseball rivalries serve as the perfect embodiment for such struggles" (p. 135). Linking baseball and politics in the discourse over cubanidad are calidad (quality) and lucha (struggle). Just as batters struggle with pitchers and are expected to do so with the proper attitude and style, Cuba since 1959 has struggled against imperialism and for survival after the collapse of the Soviet Union, while striving to build the model Cuban/socialist citizen. Part of that national effort has been through triumphant baseball players and teams, and other athletes.