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.

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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.

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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.

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

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Fidel Castro: Early life ►



 

August 13: August 13 is the 225th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (226th in leap years), with 140 days remaining....

1926: 1926 was a common year starting on Friday (link will take you to calendar)....

Cuba: The Republic of Cuba consists of the island of Cuba (the largest of the Greater Antilles), the Isle of Youth and various adjacent small islands. The name of the island is derived from the Taino word "cubanac?n", meaning a central place. It is located in the northern Caribbean at the confluence of t...




Fidel Castro related Images and Photos (experimental)

CASTRO,CRISTIAN: EL CULPABLE SOY YO CD	Chicago Cubs - Starlin Castro 2011 Portrait Plus	MLB Series 29 Starlin Castro Action Figure	MLB Playmakers Series 3 Starlin Castro Action Figure
Illustration from the Frontispiece of "Ines de Castro" by Antoine Houdar de La Motte