It is only natural that members of…

It is only natural that members of this group make their point of view felt concerning economic and social matters.

As the century progresses and their power increases, they begin questioning Spanish mercantilist policies.

Their primary focus concerns their immediate economic interests.

Yet at a time when Europe is undergoing profound intellectual changes resulting partly from the Enlightenment, their questioning of Spain's economic policies had naturally led to the growth of a more critical attitude on the part of many Creole writers and intellectuals on the island.

The desire for economic reforms was later translated into a desire for political and even social change.

Intellectual activity flourishes so intensely during the century that the period will come to be known as Cuba's Golden Century.