1-651-499 - Keystone Archives/Heritage Images

Fidel Castro, Cuban revolutionary leader, c1956-1965. Castro (1926-) became ruler of Cuba in 1959 after leading the armed revolution that overthrew the dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista. He transformed Cuba into a one-party Communist State, remaining its leader until stepping down in February 2008 due to ill health. He was replaced as President by his younger brother, Raul.