Start of the Cuban Revolution: January 1
Fulgencio Batista was a very despised pro-American dictator. He seized rule in Cuba in 1952 and only served one year before Fidel Castro stepped in, criticizing the tyranny of the Batista regime. Shortly after, Batista exiled Castro to Mexico, where Castro planned his next move to overthrow Batista. Two years later, Castro returned to Cuba, but this time, with anti-Batista groups, creating a movement, known as the 26 of July Movement. Batista was furious and razed all the towns, in search for Castro. This angered the citizens of Cuba, increasing opposition towards him. Batista's efforts to attack Castro's guerrilla failed when many of his own soldiers surrendered and backed out. The rest of the soldiers were soon attacked by Castro's forces as they moved towards the mainland. Batista fled the country and resigned as the premier of Cuba, with Castro promising to “tear down the old world,” and “build up a new.” By January 1st, 1959, Castro officially overthrew the country. By this time, the United States sided with Castro. The revolution continued through Latin America and Cuba eventually became allies with the Soviet Union. As for the United States, they soon became an enemy.