This paper presents and analyzes data on the experience of the Cuban community in South Florida, from its inception as a reaction to the revolution of 1959 through its gradual accommodation to the reality of permanent exile and its altered view of its own future. First, the paper examines the changing demographics of South Florida and how these have altered the nature of the local markets and society. The varying motivations for Cuban immigration to the Miami area are outlined and characteristics of the different waves of Cuban migration are compared, particularly the propensity for occupational mobility in the new environment and factors contributing to that mobility. Economic discrimination is discussed as a possible element in downward mobility of the refugees; while Cuban income and formal education are at present above average for Hispanic groups and Blacks, this advantage is said to be gradually eroding. The rapid assimilation of the Mariel refugees into the Miami Cuban community is analyzed, and Cuban progress in penetrating local political structures and participation in politics is surveyed. The initial lag of Cuban representation in this area is reported to be disappearing, at least at State and local levels. In conclusion, major findings are summarized and calls for further research, especially on education, are made. This report includes 3 demographic tables, and 5 more are appended. (KH)