“We are proud of the history of our country; we learned it in school and have grown up hearing of freedom, justice and human rights.”
- August 13, 1926 – November 25, 2016
- Cuban
- Revolutionary, Prime Minister and President of Cuba, Communist Leader
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Quote
“We are proud of the history of our country; we learned it in school and have grown up hearing of freedom, justice and human rights.”
Explanation
This quote expresses Fidel Castro’s affirmation of Cuban national identity and revolutionary education, rooted in the values of freedom, justice, and human rights. By stating that Cubans “learned it in school” and “grew up hearing” these ideals, Castro underscores the importance of historical consciousness and ideological formation in shaping a unified and politically aware society. He connects pride in the nation’s past with a moral framework that supports the revolutionary project.
Historically, the Cuban education system after 1959 was designed not just to eliminate illiteracy, but to instill socialist values and a deep understanding of Cuba’s anti-colonial and revolutionary heritage. Figures like José Martí, Antonio Maceo, and the rebels of the Sierra Maestra were central to the national narrative. By linking Cuba’s history to universal principles such as justice and human rights, Castro sought to demonstrate that the revolution was not a break from national tradition, but its fulfillment.
In today’s context, the quote serves as a reminder of how narratives of national pride and ethical education can serve both as tools for unity and as a source of political legitimacy. It also invites reflection on the role of education in promoting critical engagement with history, not just celebration. Castro’s words challenge nations to ensure that freedom and justice are not only taught, but realized, and that national history is a living foundation for ongoing social progress.
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