In his speech entitled “History Will Absolve Me,” revolutionary Cuban leader Fidel Castro justifies his actions after leading an attack on the Moncada Barracks. After the unsuccessful attack, Castro was put on trial. Not only had he seen his presentation before the court as an opportunity to defend his actions, but he also saw it as an opportunity to criticize the oppressive Cuban government. Throughout his speech, Castro makes references to several historical figures, such as Jose Marti, the Declaration of Independence, and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man. He argues that his actions are justifiable since his revolution followed these widely acclaimed precedents. Castro begins by explaining everything that is wrong with the…show more content… 4). He explains that the government should become more democratic and restore the liberties of the citizens. In addition, he argues that the government should address the problems of land, industrialization, housing, unemployment, education, and health. The Cuban government was very oppressive at this time, and many citizens were not hopeful that their rights would easily be restored. In addition, successfully solving each of the six previously mentioned problems would be time-consuming and expensive. Because of this, Castro feared that those who listened to his speech would believe that he was being unrealistic. As a result, he quotes Jose Marti, a Cuban poet and National Hero who inspired revolutionaries such as Castro by devoting himself to achieving Cuban independence.…show more content… Instead, Castro states, “Condemn me. It does not matter. History will absolve me” (pg. 4). He is freely asking to be sentenced because he believes that his attempted attack will positively impact the citizens of Cuba. Although Castro did not die for his country like Marti, he still attempted to follow Marti’s example by revolting against an unjust government. Castro believes that his attempt will bring attention to the corrupt Cuban government and likely cause others to take a stand against the oppression. As long as he positively impacts the Cuban government, Castro is not worried about the consequences of being imprisoned and disliked by
