There was a piece of news today that must have been on some page (mostly International) of every newspaper in the world, ie the end of Fidel Castro’s 50-year-old reign. Fidel Castro is one of the few international leaders who has managed to rule a country for such a long period. Col Gaddafi of Libya is the close second I think. But there has been a stark difference between the two. While Col. Gaddafi has been accepted by the international communities, Castro has been often been at the receiving end. He has been strongly condemned by developed nations, mainly the US. Moreover, US’ vocal critic, Venezuelan President, Hugo Chavez has often openly supported Castro and criticized the US Government.

Whether you like him or hate him, Castro is a leader who has made a name for himself in the world history. Rarely will any student graduate with a history degree without learning about this man. Castro once famously said, “Condemn me. It is of no importance. History will absolve me.” Castro, now 81, and afflicted by many diseases has finally given up. It is said that his younger brother, Raul, is the next favorite. When Castro was announcing his renouncement, the US was rejoicing. The US is supposed to have made many failed attacks on the revered Cuban Leader in the last five decades. Surprisingly, Castro survived all attacks, and has outlasted 10 American Presidents since then! From John F Kennedy to George Bush!

Fidel Castro for me is a figure who I can never forget. He is a quintessential Cuban figure. I have always seen him holding a cigar, wearing a Cuban hat, and with a beard that just qualifies to be called a beard (there is always a thin line between a beard and stubble). However, I have also developed disliking for a few of his policies. Don’t be mistaken, I have not read about his policies, but heard thru trustable sources. It so happened one day that I was sitting with a client of ContentMantra. That particular client is an international trader and has made many trips to Latin America including Cuba. During a casual conversation, I was informed that in Cuba a person is not even free enuf to choose the profession of his own choice. He has to do what the government asks him to do. That was unbelievable and for one moment I felt fortunate to be born in India. Many of Castro’s critics have often lambasted this policy of Castro.

However, Castro has done well to have his name in the history books. Not to mention, he is one of the most charismatic leaders of his age. With his political acumen and international appeal, he made cigar smoking fashionable, and showed the world, that you can survive and flourish even if you are an enemy of the US. He is also believed to have done a lot for education the public in Cuba, and helping it retain its heritage. Spending fifty years at the top, Castro has left a lot to be desired in a country which has never enjoyed to basic rights like freedom of speech and movement, but has also made Cuba a nation that has retained its individuality and refused to bend to the international pressures.

Filed under: World