Fidel CastroFidel CastroRise to PowerRise to Power

Castro overthrew Batista – who was Batista?Castro overthrew Batista – who was Batista?

Army General - Batista had interfered Army General - Batista had interfered in / influenced Cuban politics since 1933, in / influenced Cuban politics since 1933, when he led an army coup against the when he led an army coup against the unpopular unpopular MachadoMachado dictatorship dictatorship (unpopular because of election fraud, (unpopular because of election fraud, corruption, patronage, state terrorism..)corruption, patronage, state terrorism..)

Batista turned over govt. to the liberal Batista turned over govt. to the liberal Autentico Party, led by Prio – (the US Autentico Party, led by Prio – (the US govt. and US business interests were govt. and US business interests were opposed to this new govt. because it tried opposed to this new govt. because it tried to restrict foreign investment.. but FDR to restrict foreign investment.. but FDR didn’t interfere this time…and then didn’t interfere this time…and then repealed the Platt Amend in 1934)repealed the Platt Amend in 1934)

He encouraged the new govt. to introduce moderate He encouraged the new govt. to introduce moderate reform.. inc. labor reform, limited land re-distribution, a reform.. inc. labor reform, limited land re-distribution, a fairer tax system….although corruption in govt. fairer tax system….although corruption in govt. continuedcontinued

Batista watched from the wings – was considered as Batista watched from the wings – was considered as somewhat of a Populist / Reformer at this stage (he was somewhat of a Populist / Reformer at this stage (he was President from 1940-1947)President from 1940-1947)

In 1946, Cuba experienced a Post WW II Economic In 1946, Cuba experienced a Post WW II Economic Depression with the collapse of overseas sugar sales – Depression with the collapse of overseas sugar sales – led to unemployment and unrest among lower classes, led to unemployment and unrest among lower classes, and dissatisfaction among foreign (esp. US owned and dissatisfaction among foreign (esp. US owned Bethlehem Steel) and Cuban businessmen with what Bethlehem Steel) and Cuban businessmen with what they felt was the they felt was the PrioPrio govt’s / Autentico’s “insatiable govt’s / Autentico’s “insatiable corruption or expensive populist programs” (Keen, corruption or expensive populist programs” (Keen, Haynes). Haynes).

Before the election of 1952 could be concluded, Before the election of 1952 could be concluded, Batista, in Feb., staged another coup, with tacit US Batista, in Feb., staged another coup, with tacit US support, overthrowing Prio’s govt, and installing himself support, overthrowing Prio’s govt, and installing himself as Dictatoras Dictator

After this coup he banned the Cuban Communist Party, After this coup he banned the Cuban Communist Party, violently suppressed labor strikes, abolished many violently suppressed labor strikes, abolished many militant / “troublesome” unions, and eliminated most of militant / “troublesome” unions, and eliminated most of the earlier liberal / Autentico Party restrictions on the earlier liberal / Autentico Party restrictions on business freedom business freedom

Obviously, he was no longer a Populist reformer – he Obviously, he was no longer a Populist reformer – he had “changed course”…(Keen…)had “changed course”…(Keen…)

US businesses - Bethlehem Steel and Merrill-Lynch – US businesses - Bethlehem Steel and Merrill-Lynch – praised Batista’s repressive policies towards unions and praised Batista’s repressive policies towards unions and strikes, as well as his support for unlimited foreign strikes, as well as his support for unlimited foreign investment, and the free enterprise system in general investment, and the free enterprise system in general (remember historiography on US Economic (remember historiography on US Economic Imperialism / continued involvement in Latin Am, Imperialism / continued involvement in Latin Am, though using different methods, during so called Good though using different methods, during so called Good Neighbor policy_Neighbor policy_

US govt. officially recognized Batista’s administration, and US govt. officially recognized Batista’s administration, and agreed to sell him arms and military equipment (Ruiz and agreed to sell him arms and military equipment (Ruiz and Mexico…survival depended on US recognition and arms sales). Mexico…survival depended on US recognition and arms sales).

But under Batista the economy continued to deteriorate – it But under Batista the economy continued to deteriorate – it suffered from glaring weaknesses and deficiencies…suffered from glaring weaknesses and deficiencies…

Cuban EconomyCuban Economy Dominance of one crop / activity: monoculture: Dominance of one crop / activity: monoculture:

Sugar….cattle ranching the second most important Sugar….cattle ranching the second most important economic activity economic activity

Overdependence on US to purchase Cuban sugar: By Overdependence on US to purchase Cuban sugar: By agreement with the US govt., the US bought 50% of agreement with the US govt., the US bought 50% of Cuba’s sugar crop annually Cuba’s sugar crop annually

Concentration of land, esp. sugar plantations, in very few hands: Concentration of land, esp. sugar plantations, in very few hands: much of the land often remaining idle / unproductive, awaiting a much of the land often remaining idle / unproductive, awaiting a sugar boomsugar boom

Ownership by foreigners of 80% of the sugar economy (land, Ownership by foreigners of 80% of the sugar economy (land, refineries) – (American companies controlled 56% of that 80%) - so refineries) – (American companies controlled 56% of that 80%) - so the bulk of the profits generated by Cuba’s sugar economy flowed the bulk of the profits generated by Cuba’s sugar economy flowed out of the countryout of the country

Lack of industry, due to importation of cheap US goods Lack of industry, due to importation of cheap US goods in return for purchasing Cuban sugar (under reciprocal in return for purchasing Cuban sugar (under reciprocal trade arrangements): “this dampened any efforts at trade arrangements): “this dampened any efforts at creating creating import substitution industriesimport substitution industries in Cuba and in Cuba and discouraged cheaper exports from elsewhere.” discouraged cheaper exports from elsewhere.” (Sebastian Balfour)(Sebastian Balfour)

The Cuban govt. feared a reduction of the 50% quota by The Cuban govt. feared a reduction of the 50% quota by the US if Cuba increased its own manufacturing sector the US if Cuba increased its own manufacturing sector or imported them from elsewhere – so Cuba continued or imported them from elsewhere – so Cuba continued to import, and mostly from the US to import, and mostly from the US

What industries / services there were in Cuba, were often What industries / services there were in Cuba, were often controlled by giant US companies which had moved in controlled by giant US companies which had moved in to exploit Cuba’s natural resources and industry, before to exploit Cuba’s natural resources and industry, before and after the expulsion of the Spanish…during the and after the expulsion of the Spanish…during the period of the Platt Amendmentperiod of the Platt Amendment

US investment in Cuba was valued at $1.3b by 1926 – US investment in Cuba was valued at $1.3b by 1926 – sugar, railways, mining, tobacco, banking, commerce, sugar, railways, mining, tobacco, banking, commerce, real estate, telephone services, gas, electricity, hotels, real estate, telephone services, gas, electricity, hotels, casinoscasinos

US Economic Imperialism (and cultural imperialism – US Economic Imperialism (and cultural imperialism – playground of US rich and famous) had replaced Spanish playground of US rich and famous) had replaced Spanish ImperialismImperialism

The Platt Amend was replaced in 1934 by “a more The Platt Amend was replaced in 1934 by “a more modern instrument of neo-colonial domination, the modern instrument of neo-colonial domination, the Reciprocal Trade Agreement, whereby in exchange for Reciprocal Trade Agreement, whereby in exchange for the sugar quota, US exports to Cuba were given the sugar quota, US exports to Cuba were given preferential tariffs.” (Balfour)preferential tariffs.” (Balfour)

Balfour casts doubts on the Good Neighbor Policy – he Balfour casts doubts on the Good Neighbor Policy – he feels the US found a different way to exploitfeels the US found a different way to exploit

For the lower class / workers, because of the lack of For the lower class / workers, because of the lack of industry, unemployment was high: and working industry, unemployment was high: and working conditions poor, salaries were low, and poverty was conditions poor, salaries were low, and poverty was widespreadwidespread

““Any policy of developing Cuba’s economy, any effort Any policy of developing Cuba’s economy, any effort to regenerate Cuban society thus came to mean two to regenerate Cuban society thus came to mean two related things in particular: to shake off its dependence related things in particular: to shake off its dependence on the US, and to break out of the yoke of its sugar on the US, and to break out of the yoke of its sugar monoculture.” (Balfour)monoculture.” (Balfour)

To Cuban nationalists the struggle for independence was To Cuban nationalists the struggle for independence was seen as unfinished business…US economic imperialism seen as unfinished business…US economic imperialism created more domination over the Cuban economy than created more domination over the Cuban economy than under Spanish imperial power…(Balfour)under Spanish imperial power…(Balfour)

Balfour talks about the “twin blight of the Cuban Balfour talks about the “twin blight of the Cuban republic – its economic and cultural subordination to the republic – its economic and cultural subordination to the USA and the corruption of its political life”USA and the corruption of its political life”

Politics Under BatistaPolitics Under Batista His new regime was unelected, corrupt, and repressive. His new regime was unelected, corrupt, and repressive.

Elections of 1952 were cancelled: he then abolished Elections of 1952 were cancelled: he then abolished Congress and all political parties….his undemocratic, Congress and all political parties….his undemocratic, dictatorial rule and his repressive policies (denied dictatorial rule and his repressive policies (denied freedom of speech, press: arrested and imprisoned his freedom of speech, press: arrested and imprisoned his critics) caused much unrest: he was opposed bycritics) caused much unrest: he was opposed by

The The AutenticoAutentico, the moderate, liberal party of former Pres , the moderate, liberal party of former Pres Grau…its leaders fled to the USAGrau…its leaders fled to the USA

Ortodoxo Party, another moderate, liberal, reform party, Ortodoxo Party, another moderate, liberal, reform party, of the late Eddie Chibasof the late Eddie Chibas

The Confederation of University StudentsThe Confederation of University Students

The Communist Party The Communist Party

A new party added to the mix in 1953, the 26th of July A new party added to the mix in 1953, the 26th of July Movement, formed by Fidel Castro, who broke with Movement, formed by Fidel Castro, who broke with the Ortodoxosthe Ortodoxos

Support?Support? Batista was supported by Conservative groups, Batista was supported by Conservative groups,

business interests, even some unions tired of the business interests, even some unions tired of the previous system supported Batista…..army, generals…previous system supported Batista…..army, generals…

Fidel CastroFidel Castro From a reasonably wealthy landowning / sugar plantation From a reasonably wealthy landowning / sugar plantation

family (father was a former Spanish soldier): private Jesuit family (father was a former Spanish soldier): private Jesuit (Catholic) secondary education…clever but difficult (Catholic) secondary education…clever but difficult student; then Studied law at the University of Havana, student; then Studied law at the University of Havana, where he first became politically active (1945)where he first became politically active (1945)

As a student he participated in an unsuccessful invasion of As a student he participated in an unsuccessful invasion of the Dominican Republic to overthrow dictator Rafael the Dominican Republic to overthrow dictator Rafael Trujillo (1947)Trujillo (1947)

1947-1952; after flirting with the student Communist 1947-1952; after flirting with the student Communist groups (“he felt the attractive influence of Marxism as it groups (“he felt the attractive influence of Marxism as it provided a seemingly rational and definitive explanation provided a seemingly rational and definitive explanation for the events of History” - Quirk), he became a follower for the events of History” - Quirk), he became a follower of Eddie Chibas and joined the moderate, liberal, of Eddie Chibas and joined the moderate, liberal, Ortodoxo party which favored “a mild program of social Ortodoxo party which favored “a mild program of social reform and fair, uncorrupted politics”reform and fair, uncorrupted politics”

1952 - disillusioned he broke with the Ortodoxo party 1952 - disillusioned he broke with the Ortodoxo party (Chibas: committed suicide on the air / radio, during a (Chibas: committed suicide on the air / radio, during a broadcast)– he said he favored rebellion / revolution broadcast)– he said he favored rebellion / revolution rather than Chibas’s moral campaigns, which he felt were rather than Chibas’s moral campaigns, which he felt were insufficient insufficient

But he said that he learned a lot from Chibas before But he said that he learned a lot from Chibas before breaking with him – about public relations, in particular breaking with him – about public relations, in particular “the value of bold, emotive political broadcasting”…“the value of bold, emotive political broadcasting”…

Castro ran for political office (as an independent) in 1952 Castro ran for political office (as an independent) in 1952 – hoping to use a seat in parliament as a “point of – hoping to use a seat in parliament as a “point of departure for a revolution”departure for a revolution”

But Batista seized power before the elections could be But Batista seized power before the elections could be held.held.

The coup destroyed any lingering doubts that Castro had The coup destroyed any lingering doubts that Castro had that Cuba could be regenerated through parliament… “in that Cuba could be regenerated through parliament… “in any case he was not inclined towards the rituals of any case he was not inclined towards the rituals of parliamentary activity….his political ideals were inspired parliamentary activity….his political ideals were inspired by the heroic and violent myths of Cuba’s past…..he by the heroic and violent myths of Cuba’s past…..he prized oratory and physical heroism … he was aware of prized oratory and physical heroism … he was aware of the power of populist leadership”…(Balfour)the power of populist leadership”…(Balfour)

After Batista’s take over, he put together a loose After Batista’s take over, he put together a loose organization / following of about 1,200, dividing them organization / following of about 1,200, dividing them into cells of 150 eachinto cells of 150 each

He launched a naïve and failed attacked on the Moncada He launched a naïve and failed attacked on the Moncada army barracks, near Santiago, on July 26army barracks, near Santiago, on July 26 thth, 1953, with the , 1953, with the local cell, involving 111 men (documentary has a local cell, involving 111 men (documentary has a different number?) – his group took their name from this different number?) – his group took their name from this date: he hoped to spark a rebellion against the Batista date: he hoped to spark a rebellion against the Batista dictatorship – but the attack was easily defeateddictatorship – but the attack was easily defeated

Hoped to capture weapons, arm his followers, incite a Hoped to capture weapons, arm his followers, incite a popular revolt; and if that failed, flee to the hills of the popular revolt; and if that failed, flee to the hills of the Sierra Maestra Mts. and engage in guerilla warfare from Sierra Maestra Mts. and engage in guerilla warfare from there………to assist the expected popular revoltthere………to assist the expected popular revolt

Castro was captured several days after the disastrous Castro was captured several days after the disastrous attack on the barracks and later put on trial….there wasn’t attack on the barracks and later put on trial….there wasn’t any popular revoltany popular revolt

Although the assault failed, with heavy casualties, the Although the assault failed, with heavy casualties, the drastic acts of repression carried out by the govt. in its drastic acts of repression carried out by the govt. in its wake (tortured and shot dead 69 of the 111 – only 3 wake (tortured and shot dead 69 of the 111 – only 3 killed in combat, the rest murdered by fed. troops), and killed in combat, the rest murdered by fed. troops), and Castro’s eloquent defense speech at his trial got him a Castro’s eloquent defense speech at his trial got him a lot of publicity, and admirationlot of publicity, and admiration

His speech was titled His speech was titled History Will Absolve MeHistory Will Absolve Me and was and was later printed in pamphlet formlater printed in pamphlet form

History Will Absolve MeHistory Will Absolve Me He first documents the extreme poverty, deprivation, He first documents the extreme poverty, deprivation,

suffering of the Cuban people - unemployment, poor living suffering of the Cuban people - unemployment, poor living conditions, unequal distribution of land, foreign ownership conditions, unequal distribution of land, foreign ownership of land, illiteracy, malnutrition, lack of health care, of land, illiteracy, malnutrition, lack of health care, education, social serviceseducation, social services

Then criticized corruption of upper class and past and Then criticized corruption of upper class and past and present governmentspresent governments

He offered a remedy, which he called his He offered a remedy, which he called his five revolutionary five revolutionary lawslaws::

1. return power to the people and proclaim the democratic Autentico 1. return power to the people and proclaim the democratic Autentico 1940 Constitution the Supreme Law of the State1940 Constitution the Supreme Law of the State

2. Redistribution of land to give all peasants a minimum of 150 acres2. Redistribution of land to give all peasants a minimum of 150 acres

3. workers to share 30% of the profits of all large industries, 3. workers to share 30% of the profits of all large industries, mines, and sugar mills mines, and sugar mills

4. all sugar plantation workers would share 55% of all sugar 4. all sugar plantation workers would share 55% of all sugar production profitsproduction profits

5. the confiscation of all holdings, all ill-gotten gains of those 5. the confiscation of all holdings, all ill-gotten gains of those who had committed frauds during previous regimeswho had committed frauds during previous regimes

Finally, citing extensively from Montesquieu, Aquinas, Finally, citing extensively from Montesquieu, Aquinas, Martin Luther, Locke, Rousseau, Paine, the US Martin Luther, Locke, Rousseau, Paine, the US Constitution and other sources, inc. Cuban nationalist Constitution and other sources, inc. Cuban nationalist Marti, he carefully laid a legal and historical rationale to Marti, he carefully laid a legal and historical rationale to justify his right to try to overthrow an unjust dictator justify his right to try to overthrow an unjust dictator who held power illegitimately. Under such who held power illegitimately. Under such circumstances, he argued, he could not possibly be circumstances, he argued, he could not possibly be guilty of any “crime”.guilty of any “crime”.

Balfour says the speech later became the “Testament of Balfour says the speech later became the “Testament of the Revolution”….it was his Manifesto to the People, the Revolution”….it was his Manifesto to the People, containing a “profound message of social justice”containing a “profound message of social justice”

While he was in prison, the 26th July Movement was While he was in prison, the 26th July Movement was continued by a small group, inc. several women continued by a small group, inc. several women (supported by network of women’s groups “who served (supported by network of women’s groups “who served the revolution as lawyers, interpreters, medial aids, the revolution as lawyers, interpreters, medial aids, grassroots organizers, educators, spies, messengers, and grassroots organizers, educators, spies, messengers, and armed combatants” – Keen), who formed alliances with armed combatants” – Keen), who formed alliances with other anti-Batista groups. other anti-Batista groups.

These women produced and distributed 10,000 copies These women produced and distributed 10,000 copies (later, another 10,000) of his speech, which enhanced his (later, another 10,000) of his speech, which enhanced his reputation, and made him known nationallyreputation, and made him known nationally

Interpretation of his ideas?? What was he? What was it Interpretation of his ideas?? What was he? What was it he was proposing? Was he a Communist at this stage in he was proposing? Was he a Communist at this stage in his career? .......there is no mention of Communism, he his career? .......there is no mention of Communism, he was not a member of the Communist Party on the was not a member of the Communist Party on the campus of Havanna University…. Had joined Ortodoxo campus of Havanna University…. Had joined Ortodoxo Party, invoked Autentico ConstitutionParty, invoked Autentico Constitution

In college he protested that he was not a Communist… In college he protested that he was not a Communist… and the Cuban Communist Party condemned his attack and the Cuban Communist Party condemned his attack on Moncada as rash and impulsiveon Moncada as rash and impulsive

Never claimed at this stage to be inspired by Marx, Never claimed at this stage to be inspired by Marx, Lenin, Stalin, or Mao (though he read Marx, and some Lenin, Stalin, or Mao (though he read Marx, and some his best friends were Communist Party members)his best friends were Communist Party members)

At that time he claimed to be a “liberal reformer”: but At that time he claimed to be a “liberal reformer”: but did not embrace any one specific ideology – he was did not embrace any one specific ideology – he was motivated by the desire for “social justice”, he claimed motivated by the desire for “social justice”, he claimed inspiration from historic figures in Cuban history esp. inspiration from historic figures in Cuban history esp. and mostly by Jose Marti, one of the leaders in the and mostly by Jose Marti, one of the leaders in the Cuban struggle for independence from Spain in the late Cuban struggle for independence from Spain in the late 19th century…19th century…

““he was relatively unsophisticated ideologically, drawing he was relatively unsophisticated ideologically, drawing inspiration from many different sources, of which the most inspiration from many different sources, of which the most important were Cuba’s nationalist traditions….he was a important were Cuba’s nationalist traditions….he was a liberal reformer…” (Balfour)liberal reformer…” (Balfour)

Castro was not inspired by Marxist or Leninist strategy, Castro was not inspired by Marxist or Leninist strategy, nor was his movement a working class organization, nor was his movement a working class organization, though it had popular roots (Balfour)though it had popular roots (Balfour)

““Fidel saw political ideology as a pragmatic tool to be Fidel saw political ideology as a pragmatic tool to be adopted by political geniuses in the services of historic adopted by political geniuses in the services of historic achievements. Pragmatism in the pursuit of power was achievements. Pragmatism in the pursuit of power was clearly the underlying concept that he embraced.” (Peter clearly the underlying concept that he embraced.” (Peter Bourne, Bourne, Fidel, A Biography of Fidel CastroFidel, A Biography of Fidel Castro.) .)

Balfour argues that the biggest influence on his ideas was Balfour argues that the biggest influence on his ideas was Jose Marti….a nationalist, who had opposed Spanish Jose Marti….a nationalist, who had opposed Spanish imperialismimperialism

““Castro became one of the most dedicated disciples of Castro became one of the most dedicated disciples of Marti: the “Apostle” became for the new aspiring Marti: the “Apostle” became for the new aspiring liberator of Cuba a guide to action and a source of liberator of Cuba a guide to action and a source of legitimacy; Castro never lost an opportunity to link legitimacy; Castro never lost an opportunity to link himself publicly with the revolutionary traditions himself publicly with the revolutionary traditions embodied by Marti, and in the darkest moments of his embodied by Marti, and in the darkest moments of his endeavor he was able to find some inspiration from the endeavor he was able to find some inspiration from the example of Marti’s political labors”. Balfour example of Marti’s political labors”. Balfour

Marti wanted an end to dependency on the US, and major Marti wanted an end to dependency on the US, and major social reformsocial reform

Marti represented a brand of romantic, republican Marti represented a brand of romantic, republican nationalism, which he combined with a passionate belief nationalism, which he combined with a passionate belief in social justice, in the need for universal education, in in social justice, in the need for universal education, in the virtues of the countryside and land cultivation….all the virtues of the countryside and land cultivation….all of which found an echo in the young Castro (Balfour)of which found an echo in the young Castro (Balfour)

Castro was also drawn to Eddie Chibas’s Ortodoxo party Castro was also drawn to Eddie Chibas’s Ortodoxo party by somewhat similar ideas: “Chibas’s brand of patriotic by somewhat similar ideas: “Chibas’s brand of patriotic and populist radicalism exercised a deep influence on the and populist radicalism exercised a deep influence on the young Castro for whom no other models were available young Castro for whom no other models were available among the politicians of the day. Castro was drawn to among the politicians of the day. Castro was drawn to Chibas’s fearless style of moral denunciation as well as Chibas’s fearless style of moral denunciation as well as the new party’s vague social reformism and anti-the new party’s vague social reformism and anti-imperialism.” (Balfour)imperialism.” (Balfour)

Bourne goes on to say that Bourne goes on to say that History Will Absolve MeHistory Will Absolve Me was an attempt to give idealism to the Moncada attack, was an attempt to give idealism to the Moncada attack, it was his attempt to have the attack understood as one it was his attempt to have the attack understood as one event within the context of a long term struggle to event within the context of a long term struggle to achieve revolution in Cuba around a set of clear idealsachieve revolution in Cuba around a set of clear ideals

The goal was for the speech / document to serve as a The goal was for the speech / document to serve as a core around which a movement could be created, an core around which a movement could be created, an opportunity to state his goals and the goals of his opportunity to state his goals and the goals of his movement. movement.

Bourne says that it was a document carefully crafted to Bourne says that it was a document carefully crafted to mobilize the broadest possible support while at the mobilize the broadest possible support while at the same time offending the smallest number of potential same time offending the smallest number of potential backers. backers.

It was acceptable to the Communists, but avoided It was acceptable to the Communists, but avoided mentioning Communism, Marxism, Socialism. mentioning Communism, Marxism, Socialism.

It identified what everyone knew were the injustices in It identified what everyone knew were the injustices in Cuban, without threatening a time frame or specific or Cuban, without threatening a time frame or specific or methods for redress. methods for redress.

There was no attack on the USA or no call to revolution. There was no attack on the USA or no call to revolution. It was intended to draw to his cause the idealistic youth It was intended to draw to his cause the idealistic youth of the country, whether independent or affiliated to of the country, whether independent or affiliated to other parties. other parties.

The speech / pamphlet didn’t quite reach the mass of the The speech / pamphlet didn’t quite reach the mass of the people but it succeeded in winning over a small group of people but it succeeded in winning over a small group of new followers who were enough to form the basis of the new followers who were enough to form the basis of the movement.movement.

Sentenced to 15 yrs in prison, he served 22 months Sentenced to 15 yrs in prison, he served 22 months (documentary), before release under a general amnesty(documentary), before release under a general amnesty

Then took over control of his 26th of July Movement – Then took over control of his 26th of July Movement – made decisions single handedly – criticized by other made decisions single handedly – criticized by other members, who wanted decisions by committee – members, who wanted decisions by committee – Castro’s response was to ask “when have you seen a Castro’s response was to ask “when have you seen a Revolution led by a committee.”Revolution led by a committee.”

Lost some members who complained about the lack of Lost some members who complained about the lack of Democracy in the party and labeled him an old style Democracy in the party and labeled him an old style Latin American Caudillo Latin American Caudillo

Decided to go into exile (6 weeks after release) to avoid Decided to go into exile (6 weeks after release) to avoid arrest or murder by the increasingly repressive regime, arrest or murder by the increasingly repressive regime, and to return later / “invade” and organize an armed and to return later / “invade” and organize an armed revolt against Batistarevolt against Batista

Hoped to have the landing coincide with uprisings and Hoped to have the landing coincide with uprisings and strikesstrikes

Went to Mexico to plan the attack / invasion: while there Went to Mexico to plan the attack / invasion: while there he recruited an Argentine Revolutionary, Chhe recruited an Argentine Revolutionary, Chéé Guevara Guevara (Argentine Revolutionary), to his cause(Argentine Revolutionary), to his cause

Left some followers behind to build a grass roots Left some followers behind to build a grass roots movement / recruit, to prepare the popular uprising movement / recruit, to prepare the popular uprising

Training received by an invasion force of 82: Castro Training received by an invasion force of 82: Castro spent time in the US seeking support and donations spent time in the US seeking support and donations among exilesamong exiles

Accused in his absence of being a Communist, by Accused in his absence of being a Communist, by Batista – denied it (2Batista – denied it (2ndnd time): distanced himself from a time): distanced himself from a party that supported a non-violent, united front policy party that supported a non-violent, united front policy of opposition to Batista – reminded Batista that he, of opposition to Batista – reminded Batista that he, Batista, had once allied himself with the Communist Batista, had once allied himself with the Communist Party during the 1940 electionsParty during the 1940 elections

But Castro was careful in building bridges with the But Castro was careful in building bridges with the anti-Batista opposition, meeting with 2 Communist anti-Batista opposition, meeting with 2 Communist Party emissaries who were sent to visit him in MexicoParty emissaries who were sent to visit him in Mexico

Returned in Nov/Dec. 1956, with his 82 men which inc. Returned in Nov/Dec. 1956, with his 82 men which inc. ChChéé Guevara and Raul Castro his brother, on board an Guevara and Raul Castro his brother, on board an old boat / yacht, the old boat / yacht, the GranmaGranma

Had been advised that the timing was not right – strikes Had been advised that the timing was not right – strikes had not yet broken out, Govt. was expecting him – but had not yet broken out, Govt. was expecting him – but persisted anyway: stubborn.. Still hoped to spark a persisted anyway: stubborn.. Still hoped to spark a popular uprisingpopular uprising

He had given his word he would return before the end of He had given his word he would return before the end of that year and he planned on keeping it; “Castro’s that year and he planned on keeping it; “Castro’s decision to go ahead with the expedition illustrated once decision to go ahead with the expedition illustrated once again his belief in the overriding importance of public again his belief in the overriding importance of public relations and his faith in the triumph of will over relations and his faith in the triumph of will over logistics.” Balfourlogistics.” Balfour

Invasion was a disaster; old ship, storm, mechanical Invasion was a disaster; old ship, storm, mechanical breakdown, forced to jettison supplies, lost their way, breakdown, forced to jettison supplies, lost their way, landed in wrong place; informers kept gov. updated: landed in wrong place; informers kept gov. updated: ambushed by Batista’s troops: only 16 of 82 escaped to ambushed by Batista’s troops: only 16 of 82 escaped to the Sierra Maestra Mtsthe Sierra Maestra Mts

The hoped for uprisings in Santiago and other cities did The hoped for uprisings in Santiago and other cities did not take place not take place

Survived in the Mts due to support from the Peasant-Survived in the Mts due to support from the Peasant-Squatters: peasants hid and fed them and then joined his Squatters: peasants hid and fed them and then joined his guerilla band / Castro absorbed groups of peasant guerilla band / Castro absorbed groups of peasant bandits…peasants suffered from brutal treatment by bandits…peasants suffered from brutal treatment by federal troops if they were suspected of harboring federal troops if they were suspected of harboring Castro and his menCastro and his men

It was not Castro’s intention to wage the war almost It was not Castro’s intention to wage the war almost entirely from a rural base, but as the campaign gradually entirely from a rural base, but as the campaign gradually centered on the Sierra Maestra Mts, a new mythology arose centered on the Sierra Maestra Mts, a new mythology arose about peasant rebellion and rural virtue (though not about peasant rebellion and rural virtue (though not entirely a peasant war, the guerillas leaders were city entirely a peasant war, the guerillas leaders were city people)people)

The campaign in the Mts was supported by urban sabotage, The campaign in the Mts was supported by urban sabotage, strikes, …(adaptability, flexibility…..like Lenin; involve strikes, …(adaptability, flexibility…..like Lenin; involve peasants / use rural base more than was originally planned)peasants / use rural base more than was originally planned)

Many successful guerilla raids from the mountain Many successful guerilla raids from the mountain base……the ability of the rebels to repel military units not base……the ability of the rebels to repel military units not only eroded the morale of Batista’s rank and file soldiers only eroded the morale of Batista’s rank and file soldiers but also strengthened the belief that the army could be but also strengthened the belief that the army could be defeated by military meansdefeated by military means

As the guerilla forces consolidated their hold in the As the guerilla forces consolidated their hold in the mountains, the center of opposition to Batista mountains, the center of opposition to Batista increasingly became the liberated zone in the Sierra. increasingly became the liberated zone in the Sierra. This change of emphasis was accelerated by two This change of emphasis was accelerated by two things: the relative failure of anti-Batista actions in the things: the relative failure of anti-Batista actions in the city, and the skilful radio and press campaign carried city, and the skilful radio and press campaign carried out by Castro form his mountain fastnessout by Castro form his mountain fastness

Other abortive efforts were made to overthrow Batista Other abortive efforts were made to overthrow Batista – by the student underground, by ex-President Prio, by – by the student underground, by ex-President Prio, by a mutiny of officers and sailors – but all were a mutiny of officers and sailors – but all were crushed…serving to raise Castro’s stature as the crushed…serving to raise Castro’s stature as the leading opponent of the dictator Batistaleading opponent of the dictator Batista

As the Batista regime became more and more brutal in As the Batista regime became more and more brutal in the face of increased dissent, strikes, protests…Castro’s the face of increased dissent, strikes, protests…Castro’s support increasedsupport increased

He had an article published in the liberal media to He had an article published in the liberal media to explain what it was he was hoping to changeexplain what it was he was hoping to change

He explained that he was fighting for genuine He explained that he was fighting for genuine representative govt., that he had no interest in becoming representative govt., that he had no interest in becoming president, that among his objectives were freeing all president, that among his objectives were freeing all political prisoners, full and untrammeled freedom of political prisoners, full and untrammeled freedom of public information, and the wiping out of corruption, public information, and the wiping out of corruption, also said that he had no plans for the expropriation or also said that he had no plans for the expropriation or nationalization of foreign investments, but did stress nationalization of foreign investments, but did stress land reform, as well as literacy, as key objectives. land reform, as well as literacy, as key objectives.

Keen says that the views he expressed in this article are Keen says that the views he expressed in this article are even less radical than those in even less radical than those in History Will Absolve MeHistory Will Absolve Me: : these are not extreme views, not Marxist or Communist – these are not extreme views, not Marxist or Communist – what he was hoping to do was express views that were what he was hoping to do was express views that were broad enough to bring together all anti-Batista elementsbroad enough to bring together all anti-Batista elements

Castro conducted an effective public relations campaign Castro conducted an effective public relations campaign from the Sierra Mts. Knew, from his student days, the from the Sierra Mts. Knew, from his student days, the value of the media in attracting attention: aware of the value of the media in attracting attention: aware of the value of radio broadcasting from his old mentor Chibasvalue of radio broadcasting from his old mentor Chibas

Just 10 weeks after his landing he staged a publicity stunt Just 10 weeks after his landing he staged a publicity stunt that did more for his standing than any military that did more for his standing than any military engagement – he smuggled a willing engagement – he smuggled a willing NY TimesNY Times journalist, journalist, Herbert Matthews, into the depths of the Mts to interview Herbert Matthews, into the depths of the Mts to interview him (partly to disprove Batista’s claim that he was dead)him (partly to disprove Batista’s claim that he was dead)

Castro stage managed the interview to give the impression Castro stage managed the interview to give the impression that he controlled a wider area of the Mts, and that he had that he controlled a wider area of the Mts, and that he had considerable numbers under his command...exaggerated his considerable numbers under his command...exaggerated his strengths – Several articles were published in the strengths – Several articles were published in the NY TimesNY Times and reported in the Cuban press – caused a sensation, not and reported in the Cuban press – caused a sensation, not least because it suggested that Castro’s forces were least because it suggested that Castro’s forces were invincibleinvincible

Soon after, CBS sent a news crew to film a short Soon after, CBS sent a news crew to film a short documentary….. giving him more publicity documentary….. giving him more publicity

Another important media coup was the installation of a Another important media coup was the installation of a radio station in the spring of ’58 by which rebel forces radio station in the spring of ’58 by which rebel forces controlled a large part of the Sierra – controlled a large part of the Sierra – Radio RebeldeRadio Rebelde – this – this brought a new dimension to the guerilla war. Castro used its brought a new dimension to the guerilla war. Castro used its airways with great effect to put over his program for airways with great effect to put over his program for reforms, report on successful victories over Gov. forces reforms, report on successful victories over Gov. forces

Within a year, Castro’s forces dominated the Sierras. Within a year, Castro’s forces dominated the Sierras. Fed Army could not stop the flow of messengers, Fed Army could not stop the flow of messengers, recruits, arms to the guerilla stronghold…rebels recruits, arms to the guerilla stronghold…rebels established hospitals, workshops for making arms and established hospitals, workshops for making arms and ammunition, a printing press, in addition to the radio ammunition, a printing press, in addition to the radio stationstation

Divisions were emerging between Castro and the urban Divisions were emerging between Castro and the urban leaders, who preferred the urban campaign. But the leaders, who preferred the urban campaign. But the failure of strikes in Aug. ’57 and of a general strike in failure of strikes in Aug. ’57 and of a general strike in April ’58 (which he supported), helped strengthen his April ’58 (which he supported), helped strengthen his leadership and faith in the rural guerilla campaign as the leadership and faith in the rural guerilla campaign as the main instrument of overthrowing Batistamain instrument of overthrowing Batista

His growing reputation / status….Opposition groups His growing reputation / status….Opposition groups began to see him as a leader whom they could unify began to see him as a leader whom they could unify behind, and Castro realized he needed to cultivate the behind, and Castro realized he needed to cultivate the connections to other groups with a wide base of connections to other groups with a wide base of organizationsorganizations

began to realize that he should cultivate an alliance with began to realize that he should cultivate an alliance with the party that seemed to have the most reliable grassroots the party that seemed to have the most reliable grassroots support – the Communist Party support – the Communist Party

After another failed strike of April 1958 he began to turn After another failed strike of April 1958 he began to turn to the Communist Party as a source of organized support.to the Communist Party as a source of organized support.

The Communist Party, conscious of Castro’s growing The Communist Party, conscious of Castro’s growing stature, were also keen to establish closer contact and by stature, were also keen to establish closer contact and by September 1958 had a top-level member permanently in the September 1958 had a top-level member permanently in the Sierra. Sierra.

For the Communist Party, as well as Castro, the failure of For the Communist Party, as well as Castro, the failure of the 9the 9thth April general strike, finally, reinforced the moral April general strike, finally, reinforced the moral hegemony of the rural guerrilla over the city worker hegemony of the rural guerrilla over the city worker (Balfour). (Balfour).

He issued a manifesto known as the He issued a manifesto known as the Caracas PactCaracas Pact, signed , signed also by many other opposition groups (except the also by many other opposition groups (except the Communist Party). In it there was no mention of radical Communist Party). In it there was no mention of radical reform. Instead, the document referred to the restoration of reform. Instead, the document referred to the restoration of constitutional and democratic rights and economic and constitutional and democratic rights and economic and social progresssocial progress

Later, Ortodoxo and Communists party leaders met with Later, Ortodoxo and Communists party leaders met with him and signed the him and signed the Sierra Maestra ManifestoSierra Maestra Manifesto, , in July in July 19581958; ; it called for free elections, democratic govt., it called for free elections, democratic govt., absolute guarantee of freedom of the press, freedom for absolute guarantee of freedom of the press, freedom for labor unions to organize, land reform. labor unions to organize, land reform.

Keen again says that it was not as radical asKeen again says that it was not as radical as History Will History Will Absolve Me, Absolve Me, that Castro was againthat Castro was again seeking a broad seeking a broad range of support…..(pragmatic, building a broader range of support…..(pragmatic, building a broader base….)base….)

Castro needed money as well as political support, as he Castro needed money as well as political support, as he neared the final assault…..his new moderation was also neared the final assault…..his new moderation was also designed to attract the backing of wider sections of the designed to attract the backing of wider sections of the population.population.

And indeed, money began to flow in, no longer only And indeed, money began to flow in, no longer only from the labor fronts of the Movement but now also from the labor fronts of the Movement but now also from sugar-mill owners, sugar farmers, cattle ranchers, from sugar-mill owners, sugar farmers, cattle ranchers, bankers, and industrialists, especially in Orientebankers, and industrialists, especially in Oriente

Castro promised Cuban businessmen that he would free Castro promised Cuban businessmen that he would free them from US domination and Govt. corruption – that them from US domination and Govt. corruption – that they had nothing to fear from the Revolution and much they had nothing to fear from the Revolution and much to gainto gain

In one interview he assured them that: “I know In one interview he assured them that: “I know revolution sounds like bitter medicine to many revolution sounds like bitter medicine to many businessmen. But after the first shock, they will find it businessmen. But after the first shock, they will find it a boon – no more thieving tax collectors, no plundering a boon – no more thieving tax collectors, no plundering army chieftains or bribe-hungry officials to bleed them army chieftains or bribe-hungry officials to bleed them white. Our revolution is as much a moral as a political white. Our revolution is as much a moral as a political one”one”

Batista continued to try to portray Castro and his Batista continued to try to portray Castro and his movement as Communist, believing that this was a sure movement as Communist, believing that this was a sure way of maintaining US support for his regime. way of maintaining US support for his regime.

Castro denied this charge, again – his response was: “I Castro denied this charge, again – his response was: “I hate Soviet imperialism as much as I hate Yankee hate Soviet imperialism as much as I hate Yankee imperialism. I am not breaking my neck fighting one imperialism. I am not breaking my neck fighting one dictatorship to fall into another.” He claimed his dictatorship to fall into another.” He claimed his movement was Nationalist and Humanist movement was Nationalist and Humanist

Castro was expanding his support base, in anticipation Castro was expanding his support base, in anticipation of Batista’s massive offensive against his guerrilla of Batista’s massive offensive against his guerrilla stronghold…….. stronghold……..

Army of 2,000 troops, backed by the air force…but still Army of 2,000 troops, backed by the air force…but still failed to dislodge the rebels from their bases. The failure failed to dislodge the rebels from their bases. The failure of the offensive was the story not so much of the military of the offensive was the story not so much of the military strength of the guerrillas as of the “moral weakness” of strength of the guerrillas as of the “moral weakness” of the regular army. (Balfour)the regular army. (Balfour)

Already unpopular among large sections of the Already unpopular among large sections of the population for their association with the dictatorship, population for their association with the dictatorship, many officers and soldiers had little stomach for fighting. many officers and soldiers had little stomach for fighting. Several units had gone over to the rebels and there had Several units had gone over to the rebels and there had been many desertions. In contrast, the guerrillas were a been many desertions. In contrast, the guerrillas were a highly disciplined bodyhighly disciplined body

After victories over the regular army, Castro felt After victories over the regular army, Castro felt confident enough to establish more and bigger bases in confident enough to establish more and bigger bases in other rural areas (esp. in Oriente) other rural areas (esp. in Oriente)

In the “liberated zones”, the rebels began to enact a In the “liberated zones”, the rebels began to enact a wide-ranging program of social reform.. esp. land wide-ranging program of social reform.. esp. land distributiondistribution

By September 1958, Castro was ready to move the main By September 1958, Castro was ready to move the main force of guerrillas out of the Sierra Maestra and towards force of guerrillas out of the Sierra Maestra and towards Santiago, the capital of Oriente. Santiago, the capital of Oriente.

Having beaten back the army, the rebel forces launched Having beaten back the army, the rebel forces launched their own general offensive. Castro’s column from the their own general offensive. Castro’s column from the West and his brother’s from the East advanced into the West and his brother’s from the East advanced into the heart of Oriente, capturing town after town until they heart of Oriente, capturing town after town until they surrounded Santiago….then moved on Havana. surrounded Santiago….then moved on Havana.

Meanwhile, a group of army officers plotted to replace Meanwhile, a group of army officers plotted to replace Batista with a mixed civilian and military junta, which, Batista with a mixed civilian and military junta, which, they hoped, would be recognized by the US they hoped, would be recognized by the US

Batista tried to brutally crush the mutiny using extreme Batista tried to brutally crush the mutiny using extreme force (using bomber planes and heavy artillery given to force (using bomber planes and heavy artillery given to him by the US)him by the US)

This led to Batista being abandoned by the US – had This led to Batista being abandoned by the US – had become an embarrassment – invoked a clause in the arms become an embarrassment – invoked a clause in the arms sales agreement about not using heavy weapons for sales agreement about not using heavy weapons for domestic purposes; as a result, the US suspended arms domestic purposes; as a result, the US suspended arms shipments / began embargo to Batista’s govt. in March shipments / began embargo to Batista’s govt. in March 19581958

Now abandoned by the US, Batista and his followers Now abandoned by the US, Batista and his followers prepared to flee Cuba - Batista fled to the Dominican prepared to flee Cuba - Batista fled to the Dominican Republic in Dec. 1958…….later to MiamiRepublic in Dec. 1958…….later to Miami

The junta that replaced him enjoyed only a brief moment The junta that replaced him enjoyed only a brief moment of power. of power.

Castro issued a call for a general strike to overthrow the Castro issued a call for a general strike to overthrow the new regime…….supported by many workers. new regime…….supported by many workers.

Castro and his 3,000 “strong” army marched to Havana Castro and his 3,000 “strong” army marched to Havana and assumed power on Jan 1st 1959and assumed power on Jan 1st 1959

““The rebels won because they were persistent and The rebels won because they were persistent and disciplined, and gained the sympathy of all the people – disciplined, and gained the sympathy of all the people – peasants, workers, and the middle class – and because peasants, workers, and the middle class – and because they faced an army wracked by favoritism and they faced an army wracked by favoritism and incompetence. Batista’s army, put to the test, proved able incompetence. Batista’s army, put to the test, proved able to terrorize unarmed citizens but disintegrated when to terrorize unarmed citizens but disintegrated when confronted with a formidable insurgency.” (Keen). confronted with a formidable insurgency.” (Keen).

Castro had cashed in on the cumulative effect of all the Castro had cashed in on the cumulative effect of all the opposition efforts to overthrow Batista (Keen)opposition efforts to overthrow Batista (Keen)

Castro’s Rise to PowerCastro’s Rise to Power 1. 1. Historical CircumstancesHistorical Circumstances – unpopularity of Batista – unpopularity of Batista

Administration…political and economic / social conditions, Administration…political and economic / social conditions, circumstances..US Ec and Cultural Imperialism….Batista circumstances..US Ec and Cultural Imperialism….Batista eventually abandoned by the USAeventually abandoned by the USA

2. 2. Moncada attack, Moncada attack, History Will Absolve MeHistory Will Absolve Me..... ..... established himself as a leader of the forces against established himself as a leader of the forces against Batista..brutality of gov. forces..details of speech / pamphlet Batista..brutality of gov. forces..details of speech / pamphlet

3. 3. Vague / Broad IdeologyVague / Broad Ideology: : not an ideologue: not a Communist; not an ideologue: not a Communist; Flexibility with ideology…appealed to many groups, Flexibility with ideology…appealed to many groups, History will History will Absolve Me,Absolve Me, newspaper article (role of radical group of women), newspaper article (role of radical group of women), Caracas Pact, Caracas Pact, Sierra Maestra Manifesto…Sierra Maestra Manifesto…to appeal to a broad group to appeal to a broad group of support…more a Cuban nationalist than anything….. Marti and of support…more a Cuban nationalist than anything….. Marti and Chibas the biggest influences on his politics (nationalism, anti-Chibas the biggest influences on his politics (nationalism, anti-imperialism, social justice)….alliance with Autentico, Orthodoxo, imperialism, social justice)….alliance with Autentico, Orthodoxo, Communist Party….even won over Cuban industrialists Communist Party….even won over Cuban industrialists

4. 4. PersonalityPersonality: steadfast, determined: in spite of : steadfast, determined: in spite of Moncada failure, Moncada failure, GranmaGranma / invasion failure……strong / invasion failure……strong will-power, dogged determination in face of adversitywill-power, dogged determination in face of adversity

5. 5. Successful Guerilla CampaignSuccessful Guerilla Campaign from Sierra Maestra from Sierra Maestra Mts, flexibility / adaptability, recognizing that peasant Mts, flexibility / adaptability, recognizing that peasant based guerilla movement was more successful than the based guerilla movement was more successful than the urban, worker based efforts….combining ideals of urban, worker based efforts….combining ideals of workers and peasants….growing from 16 to 3,000 + …workers and peasants….growing from 16 to 3,000 + …undermined morale of regular army…desertions and undermined morale of regular army…desertions and mutinies leading to downfall of Batistamutinies leading to downfall of Batista

6. 6. Effective use of PropagandaEffective use of Propaganda, Media, Dramatic , Media, Dramatic Events….inc. Matthews interview, CBS, Radio Events….inc. Matthews interview, CBS, Radio Rebelde, Printing Press Rebelde, Printing Press

Compare and Contrast with StalinCompare and Contrast with Stalin CompareCompare Determined personalitiesDetermined personalities Took advantage of conditions / situations presentedTook advantage of conditions / situations presented Flexibility with ideologyFlexibility with ideology

ContrastContrast Castro’s Rev is from outside – overthrow existing right wing regime…Castro’s Rev is from outside – overthrow existing right wing regime…

guerilla warfare, external coup or an internal palace coup – already is guerilla warfare, external coup or an internal palace coup – already is part of ruling partypart of ruling party

Castro - not a Communist Revolution – appeal to a wide variety of Castro - not a Communist Revolution – appeal to a wide variety of groups – Stalin’s is Communist / Stalinistgroups – Stalin’s is Communist / Stalinist

Castro achieves success with support of peasants: Pro-peasant…relied Castro achieves success with support of peasants: Pro-peasant…relied more on that sector to gain success…introduces reforms to benefit more on that sector to gain success…introduces reforms to benefit peasants: Stalin opposed to peasants…is brutal towards peasants…peasants: Stalin opposed to peasants…is brutal towards peasants…Collectivization and PurgesCollectivization and Purges