Fidel Castro was the charismatic leader of the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Leading a successful armed insurrection against the authoritarian regime of Fulgencio Batista, Castro and his revolutionary forces ultimately seized power in January 1959. He became a prominent figure in global politics, known for his socialist policies and opposition to U.S. influence in Latin America. Under his leadership, Cuba underwent significant social and economic transformations, although these changes came with stark restrictions on civil liberties and political dissent. Castro's rule lasted until 2008, profoundly impacting Cuba's relationship with the United States and the wider world.