Fidel Castro, By Nick Caistor

Biography review: Fidel Castro

Introduction: Fidel Castro is one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, especially in the context of the Cold War and Latin America. A divisive figure, Castro is remembered as a brutal dictator by his opponents and as a revolutionary leader by supporters. The biography Fidel Castro written by Nick Caistor explores Castro’s life from its humble beginning in Biran to the end of his rule in 2006, going beyond simple history to show how he became the man so well known by history. The biography does a fantastic job of showing Castro’s progression from a politically active college student, to a bold revolutionary, and ultimately a leader within Latin American politics. Caistor’s reflection on the life of Castro shows the Cuban leader as a champion of his people but as an ineffective leader when it came to running the country. Despite showing where Castro was successful, the author does not sugarcoat his shortcomings. Caistor balances his respect for Castro’s idealism by including the many flaws of his rule, especially when it came to the Cuban economy and his hostile relationship with the United States. Caistor portrays Fidel as a revolutionary figure that has the best interests of his people at heart, and worked to build up Cuba,

His father owned a successful sugar farm in Biran and was fairly influential within the community. Fidel Castro came from a middle class background which is often different from the typical dictator’s backstory. From the time he was little, Castro was educated in catholic schools run by Jesuits which he says had a profound impact on him as a young boy, instilling a sense of personal pride, honor, hard work, and courage. Castro also admired his teacher’s strict organization and discipline, as well as their ability to make sacrifices, an influence that can be seen easily later on in his