Batista was the Cuban president from 1940 to 1944, and in 1952 to 1959. He was also the dictator of Cuba. As Cheif of Staff of the Cuban Army, he forced the resigntation of President Ramón Grau San Martín. In 1952, Batista staged a coup of the government, assumed the title of President, and suspended the Constitution of Cuba. With the revolt of the people led by Fidel Castro, he spent the rest of his life in exile.
Batista Before Ruling
His early life isn't documented that much, but we do know that he was born in Banes in 1901 and that he went to military school in 1921.
In the overthrow of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes y Quesada in 1933, he emerged as one of the leaders, and perhaps causes, of the overthrow. He became the Chief of Staff of the Cuban army under Ramón Grau San Martín. In this way, Batista gained access to the government, thus seizing control of the government and forcing San Martí to resign in 1934.
He was basically in control once Martín resigned. There were several rulers, but they were all "puppet" rulers. That is, they had the title, but Batista basically had all of the power. In 1940, Batista himself ran in the elections, and was elected. He actually initiated some good reforms, but otherwise his four-year term was uneventful. In 1944 when the next elections came, a snag hit Batista's plan. Martín was elected, in favor of another puppet of Batista. He was in the background for about 8 years. Then, in 1952, he staged a coup d'etat and took over Martín once again. He ruled until 1959, when an armed revolt led by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara overthrew him and his corrupt regime, and sent him into exile.
It is unknown where and how he died, but it is known that he died in exile in 1973.
His plot was ruined.
[Return to Profiles] [Move on to Effects Page]