• Fidel’s still alive Fidel Castro, at the age of 82, has remained out of the public eye for nearly two and a half years due to health issues (which remain a state secret). His brother Raul holds power.
• His influence remains While he’s not out in public, he still publishes the occasional essay, suggesting that even if he’s not in charge, he may as well be. His brother has implemented few reforms since he took power.
• Some good, some badCastro brought reforms such as universal health care to his island (something the U.S. lacks, by the way), but it came at the cost of freedoms – including laborers’ right to strike and the freedom to dissent. source

Posted by Ernie Smith • Permalink