Fidel Castro

Fidel Castro Ruz (born August 13, 1926) has ruled Cuba since 1959, when, leading the 26th of July Movement, he overthrew the regime of Fulgencio Batista and transformed Cuba into the first communist state in the Western Hemisphere.

Related Topics:
August 13 - 1926 - Cuba - 1959 - 26th of July Movement - Fulgencio Batista - Communist state - Western Hemisphere

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During his long rule he has emerged as one of the more controversial political figures in the world. Internationally, his leadership has been marked by tensions with the United States—in particular during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962—and a close partnership with the Soviet Union.

Related Topics:
United States - Cuban Missile Crisis - 1962 - Soviet Union

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Domestically, he has overseen:

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• the implementation of radical land reform and the collectivization of agriculture;
• the nationalization of leading Cuban industries;
• social programs that instituted universal healthcare and expanded public education;
• the systematic removal of all political opposition.

Castro's government initially won general support among Cubans. Later, however, some citizens became disillusioned as the government expropriated capital assets, suppressed opposition parties and restricted emigration.

Related Topics:
Expropriated capital assets - Suppressed opposition parties - Emigration

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Castro has indicated that in the event of his sickness or death, his brother, Raúl Castro, should assume his leadership.

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Fidel Castro: Early life ►