He was Cuba’s “Máximo Lider.” From atop a Cuban Army tank, he directed his country’s defense at the Bay of Pigs. He wielded power like a tyrant, controlling every aspect of the island’s existence. Castro believed himself to be the messiah of his fatherland, an indispensable force with authority from on high to control Cuba and its people. Most people in the crowd had no idea what Mr.
Castro, perching on a shoulder, the crowd erupted, chanting: “Fidel! Fidel!” To the war-weary Cubans gathered there and those watching on television, it was an electrifying sign that their young, bearded guerrilla leader was destined to be their savior. Finally, white doves were released to signal Cuba’s new peace.
8, 1959, and completed his overthrow of Fulgencio Batista by delivering his first major speech in the capital before tens of thousands of admirers at the vanquished dictator’s military headquarters.Ī spotlight shone on him as he swaggered and spoke with passion until dawn. He dominated his country with strength and symbolism from the day he triumphantly entered Havana on Jan.
