Santeria

Santeria is an Afro-Cuban religion also known as Regla de Ocha. It originated in Cuba during the slave trade among Africans who belonged to the Yoruba people, an ethnic group in Africa. The slaves were forbidden from practicing their religion and the traditions therefore merged with Christian traditions and beliefs, creating a religion that became known as Santeria.International Herald Tribune: Venezuelans increasingly turn to Santeria... (February 2008)

Santeria spread through other countries through the migration of Cubans. In Cuba, practitioners were discriminated against during parts of the country's history and could not hold positions within the party or stage ceremonies without police permission. Some people believe the religion is more common than Catholicism on Cuba, where the communist regime has traditionally discouraged practice of religion.The Earth Times: Cuba takes pride in its African heritage (March 3, 2009)