“The Revolution did not assume a socialist nature because of support from the U.S.S.R.; it was the other way around: support from the U.S.S.R. was produced by the socialist nature of the Cuban Revolution. To such a degree, that when the U.S.S.R. disappears, Cuba keeps on being socialist.”
- August 13, 1926 – November 25, 2016
- Cuban
- Revolutionary, Prime Minister and President of Cuba, Communist Leader
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Quote
“The Revolution did not assume a socialist nature because of support from the U.S.S.R.; it was the other way around: support from the U.S.S.R. was produced by the socialist nature of the Cuban Revolution. To such a degree, that when the U.S.S.R. disappears, Cuba keeps on being socialist.”
Explanation
This quote strongly asserts Fidel Castro’s defense of Cuba’s ideological independence and authenticity, especially regarding its relationship with the Soviet Union. Castro clarifies that Cuba did not become socialist because of Soviet influence or aid, but rather, Soviet support was a response to the revolutionary path Cuba had already chosen. This distinction is critical to Castro’s narrative of Cuban sovereignty and ideological integrity, as it rejects the notion that Cuba was merely a Cold War satellite or puppet state.
The final statement—“when the U.S.S.R. disappears, Cuba keeps on being socialist”—reinforces this point by underlining Cuba’s unwavering commitment to socialism even after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. While many assumed Cuba would abandon its socialist system once its principal ally and benefactor was gone, Castro presents Cuba’s continued dedication to its principles as evidence of revolutionary conviction, not dependency.
In the modern context, this quote stands as a powerful declaration of ideological resilience. It challenges the belief that socialist projects in smaller nations are sustainable only with external support, and instead emphasizes the role of internal will, popular legitimacy, and national identity. Castro’s words defend Cuban socialism as a homegrown movement, sustained not by geopolitical convenience but by deep-rooted values and a vision of justice uniquely shaped by Cuban history.
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