Fidel!

The author of this book takes a highly original approach to understanding the past three decades of Cuban historyhe offers an analysis and interpretation of the prolific writings and speeches of Fidel Castro and of numerous interviews with him. Through Castros own words, Sheldon Liss examines the evolution of the Cuban leaders political and social ideas and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the Revolution. Liss first illuminates how intellectuals and political activists, including Jos Marti, Antonio Guiteras, and Ernesto Che Guevara, influenced Fidels ideological development. Next, he examines the Cuban and European origins of Castros political philosophy, probes his views on the deficiencies inherent in capitalism, and details why he established a vanguard Communist party. Throughout the book, Liss places Fidels ideas in international perspective, outlining, for example, his views of the Cuban-Soviet relationship, his reasoning behind Cubas support for revolutionary movements in the Third World, and his thoughts on the role of the United States in exacerbating social ills in Latin America. Finally, Liss investigates Castros controversial views on democracy, human rights, and freedom of artistic and intellectual expression. The book stands as a fine introduction to Cubas unique brand of Third World Marxism.