feb 16, 1959 - Fidel Castro becomes leader of Cuba : (February 16, 1959) Led the campaign to overthrow the dictatorship created by Fulgencio Batista and established himself as prime minister of Cuba after that had been accomplished. Created a Marxist government and sided with the Soviets during the Cold War. Allowed the Soviets to bring their nuclear missiles to Cuba to be stored there in preparation for war with the US.
Added to timeline:
Date:
feb 16, 1959
Now
~ 66 years ago