Haydee Speaks of Moncada

On July 26, 1953, Haydée Santamaría was one of two women who joined Fidel Castro in the armed attack against the Moncada Barracks, a battle widely remembered as the fight that launched the Cuban Revolution-but the attack itself proved unsuccessful. During the tragic events that followed, Haydée was arrested, tortured, and lost many loved ones, including her brother and fiancé. Still, she continued to commit herself to the struggle despite the unthinkable hardships she faced, co-founding the July 26 Revolutionary Movement against the Batista dictatorship, and after their victory, establishing and directing the prestigious cultural institute Casa de las Américas.

This book is a discussion held in 1968 between the introverted leader and the curious youth of a new revolutionary society. Their conversation gives us an intimate glimpse into the unique experience of fighting at the frontlines of a liberation struggle-a position where you don't know what lies ahead. Years later, Haydée's testimony serves as reference for the long fight of the Cuban people in achieving sovereignty, dignity, and building a socialist project.