Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz
- Born:
- August 13, 1926, Birán, Cuba
- Died:
- November 25, 2016, Havana, Cuba
- Nationality:
- Cuban
- Profession(s):
- Politician, Revolutionary, Lawyer
Early Life and Education
- Born to Ángel Castro y Argiz, a wealthy Spanish immigrant landowner, and Lina Ruz González.
- Educated at private boarding schools, including the Colegio Belén, a Jesuit preparatory school in Havana.
- Entered the University of Havana in 1945, studying law.
- Became involved in student activism and anti-government protests.
Career and Major Achievements
- Led the failed attack on the Moncada Barracks in 1953; imprisoned and later exiled.
- Organized the 26th of July Movement to overthrow the Batista dictatorship.
- Led the Cuban Revolution, successfully ousting Batista in 1959.
- Became Prime Minister of Cuba in 1959 and President in 1976.
- Established a communist state in Cuba.
- Oversaw significant improvements in Cuban healthcare and education.
- Implemented land reform and nationalized industries.
- Maintained power for nearly five decades, surviving numerous assassination attempts and a US embargo.
- The "fidel castro biography powerpoint 2nd" version prepared for educational purposes serves as just one resource among many for understanding his complex life.
Notable Works
- Speeches: Known for long, often hours-long speeches on national and international issues.
- History Will Absolve Me (1953): A speech delivered during his trial after the Moncada Barracks attack, later published as a manifesto.
Legacy and Impact
Fidel Castro remains a highly controversial figure. He is lauded by some for his social programs and defiance of the United States, while criticized by others for his authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement. His legacy continues to shape Cuban politics and its relationship with the world.