Castro / Edition 3

by Sebastian Balfour

Overview

Balfour's illuminating study is more than a personal biography, although it traces Castro's evolution from student leader to head of state. It analyses the peculiar historical conditions that enabled Castro to seize and maintain power, arguing that his popular appeal rested on a identification with a century-old struggle for national regeneration.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	2901405873184
Publication date:	11/20/2008
Pages:	228
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 1.25(h) x 9.00(d)

About the Author

Balfour, Sebastian

Table of Contents

	Preface to the first edition	vi
	Preface to the second edition	viii
	Introduction	1
Chapter 1	Pictures of the past, visions of the future	5
Chapter 2	The rebel	21
Chapter 3	Rise to power	36
Chapter 4	Defying the eagle	64
Chapter 5	The grand illusion	78
Chapter 6	The revolutionary godfather	103
Chapter 7	The world statesman	119
Chapter 8	Straightening the rudder	146
Chapter 9	Socialism or death!	162
Chapter 10	Sitting on the seawall	175
	Bibliographical essay	183
	Maps	189
	Index	194

Editorial Reviews

Reprint of a study in which Balfour (contemporary Spanish Studies, London School of Economics) traces Fidel Castro's path to power, from student leader to head of state. Taking account of recent world developments, he analyzes the historical conditions that enabled Castro to seize and maintain power; assesses Castro's charismatic appeal and use of the mass media; uses Castro's own words, letters and documents to explore his decades of rule and considers his economic record; talks to Cuban officials, writers, historians and journalists to look at the changing perception of Cubans about their leader; and shows how Cuba came to play an international role so disproportionate to the country's size and economic weight. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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