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Fidel Castro consolidated his power in Cuba by imposing socialism, eliminating all dissent and persecuting the Church, according to accusations that hold him responsible for executions and repressive measures aimed at instilling terror.
The Cuban priest Alberto Reyes, in a post on Facebook this Monday, just hours before the 99th anniversary of the former dictator's birth, recounted what he described as "the shadows" of the regime, from summary executions to total control over education and private life.
In his reflection, he noted that Castro denied being a communist during the struggle in the Sierra Maestra, asserting that the Revolution was “green like the palms.”
However, once he consolidated his power, he proclaimed the socialist nature of the process without subjecting it to a popular referendum, contradicting the democratic aspirations of those who initially supported him.
Among the most controversial episodes, he mentioned executions that took place in the Sierra Maestra and in the early years of the regime, as well as the execution of three young men who attempted to hijack the Regla ferry to flee to the United States, despite not having harmed anyone, as a “exemplary punishment,” a practice that has persisted for decades.
Reyes also denounced the total intervention of the educational system, the elimination of school alternatives, and the centralization of teaching, which deprived parents of the ability to make decisions regarding their children's education.
This was complemented by programs such as scholarships, rural schools, and the "missions" that separated entire families.
The religious persecution that began in the 1960s included the expulsion of bishops, priests, and nuns, the confiscation of schools, the sending of Christians to the UMAP —forced labor camps— and professional restrictions for young believers.
Acts of harassment were also organized outside temples, religious symbols were prohibited, and a militant atheism was promoted in classrooms, portraying the Church as an ideological enemy.
These events, the priest recalled, are an inseparable part of Cuba's recent history and the "leadership" of Fidel Castro, who combined a carefully crafted international image with strict political and social control on the island.
In recent days, the regime has promoted a campaign to "celebrate" the dictator's birthday. In this regard, even the Felton Thermal Power Plant boasted of supplying 205 MW to the National Electric System, "just hours before the Commander’s 99th birthday".
Frequently Asked Questions about Fidel Castro's Regime and Its Impact on Cuba
What were the main repressive measures implemented by Fidel Castro in Cuba?
Fidel Castro implemented repressive measures such as executions, religious persecution, and total control over education. These actions included summary executions, the expulsion of church members, the confiscation of schools, and the imposition of militant atheism, among others.
How did Fidel Castro's regime affect education in Cuba?
The regime of Fidel Castro centralized and controlled education in Cuba, eliminating school alternatives and programs that separated families, such as rural schools. This deprived parents of the ability to make decisions about their children's education, aligning the educational system with the regime's ideologies.
In what ways were the Church and believers persecuted in Cuba under the Castro regime?
Under the Castro regime, the Church was persecuted by expelling bishops, priests, and nuns, confiscating schools, and sending Christians to forced labor camps. Additionally, religious symbols were prohibited, and atheism was promoted in classrooms.
What did the priest Alberto Reyes say about the impact of socialism in Cuba?
The priest Alberto Reyes criticized socialism in Cuba, stating that it has brought repression, misery, and manipulation. He notes that the regime has maintained itself through empty promises and repression, impacting all aspects of daily life on the island.
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