The histories of these very different islands reflect several common themes, especially their peoples' struggle to end slavery and to gain independence from Spain. Both islands became the posession of the United States after the Spanish American war in 1898. In 1959, Cuba became a sovereign nation.

Cultural diversity -a blend of Spanish, Indigenous and African traditions - is beautifully reflected in the rich musical traditions of Cuba and Puerto Rico. One of the major genres of Afro-Cuban secular music and dance which has influenced salsa music in the United States is rumba . There are three main forms of "rumba", all of which feature a lead singer with chorus. These include the guaguanco and "yambo" (both are couple dances) and the "colombia" (a solo male dance). The guaguanco is accompanied by three conga drums, claves (two wooden sticks struck together) and a guagua (a piece of bamboo struck with two sticks). In the yambu, "Cajones" (wooden boxes) are typically substituted for congas.

Although salsa has often been associated with Cuban musical styles and musicians, a unique mix of rhythms, melodies and instruments from Puerto Rico have also come to define contemporary salsa in New York City. Two of the best-known forms of music from Puerto Rico that directly contribute to salsa are bomba and plena. The African-derived bomba features highly expressive dancing and singing which is traditionally accompanied by two barrel-shaped drums. Plena songs, valued for their commentary on Puerto Rican life, are typically performed by an ensemble that includes three or more "panderos" (small frame drums) and percussion instruments, and one or more non-percussive instruments such as a sinfonia (harmonica) or guitar. In the United States, bombas and plenas are performed at jam sessions, parties, celebrations and community gatherings. They are also presented by ensembles at choreographed shows or public performances.