The leading figure of the Cuban Revolution was Fidel Castro. He emerged as a prominent revolutionary leader during the late 1950s, leading a guerrilla campaign against Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista. Castro’s successful overthrow of Batista in 1959 marked a significant turning point for Cuba, leading to the establishment of a socialist state. Castro's regime transformed the country's political landscape and had lasting impacts on U.S.-Cuban relations. His leadership continued for several decades, significantly shaping Cuba's domestic and foreign policies.