Raul Castro: A Profile

Early Life and Career

Raul Castro was born on June 3, 1931, in Biran, Cuba, to Angel Castro y Argiz and Lina Ruz Gonzalez. His older brother Fidel Castro was a prominent figure in the Cuban Revolution. Raul Castro joined the revolutionary movement in 1953, and he played a key role in the overthrow of the Fulgencio Batista dictatorship in 1959.

Rise to Power

After the revolution, Raul Castro served in a variety of government positions, including Minister of Defense and Vice President of the Council of State. In 2008, he succeeded his brother as President of Cuba. As President, Raul Castro has implemented a series of economic and social reforms, including the legalization of private enterprise and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the United States.

Domestic Policy

Raul Castro's domestic policy has been focused on improving the Cuban economy and standard of living. He has implemented a series of economic reforms, including the legalization of private enterprise and the establishment of special economic zones. These reforms have led to some growth in the Cuban economy, but the country still faces significant economic challenges. Castro has also implemented a number of social reforms, including the expansion of access to education and healthcare. He has also worked to improve the human rights situation in Cuba, although the country still has a long way to go in this area.

Foreign Policy

Raul Castro's foreign policy has been focused on improving Cuba's relations with the United States and other countries. In 2015, Cuba and the United States reestablished diplomatic relations, and the two countries have since made progress on a number of issues, including trade and travel. Castro has also worked to improve Cuba's relations with other countries in the region, including Venezuela and Mexico. He has also played a key role in the peace process in Colombia.

Assessment

Raul Castro is a complex and controversial figure. He is a committed revolutionary who has led Cuba through a period of significant change. However, his presidency has also been marked by economic challenges and human rights abuses. It is too early to say what his legacy will be, but he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most important figures in Cuban history.