This chapter argues that in order to more fully understand the histories of Spain and Cuba in the nineteenth century a scholarly and objective account of Spanish colonial rule on the island is required. It focuses on a critical turning-point in the life of Brigadier Ramón Maria de Labra, experienced in Cienfuegos, Cuba, in the 1840s, and which is sparsely recorded. The chapter enquires into the historical significance of the unexpected events the Brigadier experienced, their likely impact on him and his family, and the possible long-term consequences for Cuba and Spain. In the central square of Cienfuegos, a port on the southern coast of Cuba, stands an imposing statue of Brigadier Labra. Despite the heightened racial tensions during the La Escalera episode, Labra successfully maintained peace in Cienfuegos and attempted to avert the persecution of the slaves and potential race conflict.