Get Off Cuba's Toes
Words & music by J.R. Henning
Published 1896

Across the sea, a fierce old Spanish grandee*
Sat on his throne, as proud as could be.
He wore a crown, and held a gleaming sceptre,
Never a tyrant half so bold as he.
When he, with iron hand, seized all the Cuban land,
Cuba resisted though her strength was small.
Bravely she strives for liberty and glory,
Forward, and aid her till the tyrant fall!

[refrain]
Get off of Cuba's toes, you Spanish grandee,
Go cool your heels beside the great salt sea;
When Uncle Sam shall set the eagle soaring,
Spain will retire, and Cuba shall be free!

The Union eagle stands with wings extended,
Screaming his rage to ev'ry wind that blows;
With claws outspread, he shrieks of truth and justice,
Ready to face and fight a thousand foes.
When freedom's cry is heard then will the noble bird
Bury his talons in the grandee proud;
Soon will the tyrant loose his hold and tremble,
Sneak off to Europe, while we cry aloud:

[repeat refrain]

If that old grandee does not hustle quickly,
The Bird of liberty will loose his chain,
Neutral no more, he'll fly to Cuba's rescue,
While Uncle Sam will follow in his train.
Loud will the Cubans cheer, "Hurrah! the eagle's here;
Vict'ry must follow when he soars on high!"
Run home and hide, you disappointed grandee;
And as you go America will cry:

[repeat refrain]

*a man of elevated rank or station; especially : a Spanish or Portuguese nobleman of the first rank