Fulgencio Batista: From Revolutionary to Strongman

Fulgencio Batista y Zaldivar (January 16, 1901 – August 6, 1973) was a Cuban military officer and politician who served as President of Cuba in two periods: from 1940 to 1944 and from 1952 to 1959. He was a controversial figure, known both for his authoritarian rule and for his role in Cuba's economic development.

Early Life and Career

Batista was born in Banes, Cuba, to a poor family. He joined the Cuban army in 1921 and quickly rose through the ranks. He became a sergeant by 1928 and a lieutenant colonel by 1933. Batista was involved in the overthrow of President Gerardo Machado in 1933 and played a leading role in the subsequent military dictatorship.

Fulgencio Batista: From Revolutionary to Strongman

by Frank Argote-Freyre

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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In 1940, Batista was elected president of Cuba. He ruled as a populist dictator, suppressing political opposition and enriching himself and his cronies. He also oversaw a period of economic growth and stability.

Second Presidency

Batista was overthrown in 1944 by a popular uprising. He went into exile in Florida, but returned to Cuba in 1952 and staged a military coup to regain power. He ruled as a dictator for a second time, but his regime was increasingly repressive and corrupt.

Batista's second presidency was marked by widespread human rights abuses, economic stagnation, and growing popular unrest. In 1959, he was overthrown by the Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro.

Legacy

Batista's legacy is a complex one. He was a ruthless dictator who suppressed political dissent and violated human rights. He also oversaw a period of economic growth and stability. His overthrow by the Cuban Revolution marked a turning point in Cuban history.

Timeline of Key Events

• 1901: Born in Banes, Cuba
• 1921: Joins the Cuban army
• 1933: Plays a leading role in the overthrow of President Gerardo Machado
• 1940: Elected president of Cuba
• 1944: Overthrown by a popular uprising
• 1952: Returns to Cuba and stages a military coup
• 1959: Overthrown by the Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro
• 1973: Dies in exile in Spain

Additional Resources

• Fulgencio Batista y Zaldivar (Britannica)
• Fulgencio Batista (History.com)
• Fulgencio Batista: A Timeline of His Rise and Fall (PBS)

Fulgencio Batista: From Revolutionary to Strongman

by Frank Argote-Freyre

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4562 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages

FREE