Which country exerted the strongest Latin influence on popular American dance music in the 1930s?

Cuba exerted the strongest Latin influence on popular American dance music in the 1930s primarily due to its rich musical heritage and the fusion of various musical styles. The Cuban influence can be seen in the rise of genres such as the Rumba and Mambo, which became immensely popular in the United States during this period. Artists like Desi Arnaz helped to popularize these Cuban rhythms and instruments, such as the clave and maracas, contributing significantly to the soundscape of American dance music.

Additionally, the close geographical proximity of Cuba to the United States facilitated cultural exchanges, making Cuban music more accessible to American audiences. The introduction of Cuban music into American dance halls and clubs helped to spark a wider interest in Latin music, leading to a significant blending of musical traditions.

While Brazil, Mexico, and Puerto Rico also contributed to Latin music's development in America, it was Cuba's unique rhythms and beats that played a pivotal role in shaping the popular music scene of the 1930s.