One hundred years of the first Communist Party of Cuba

By Dayán González, translated from the Spanish

A century ago, in the turbulent city of Havana, marked by the deep domination of American monopolies, the first Communist Party of Cuba was born. Fidel described it as the Party of Independence due to the ideals, discipline, and dedication to the Homeland demonstrated by the few individuals in the country who possessed the foresight and vision to join this organization. This party was inspired by the most authentic ideals of Marxism-Leninism and Martí's thought.

Among its founders was Carlos Baliño, who in 1895, alongside the Apostle, established the Cuban Revolutionary Party. This act symbolized the continuation of Martí's ideas, which also inspired a younger generation, represented by Julio Antonio Mella, a student leader, anti-imperialist, and prominent communist. Rubén Martínez Villena, known for his integrity and bravery, was another valuable figure from the Homeland who joined the Party's ranks.

A party that was compelled to operate entirely in secrecy during a period when the Machado dictatorship was at its most brutal, aggressively targeting workers' leaders and launching a slanderous anti-communist campaign. This forced many of its leaders into exile, though not before they had engaged in significant efforts to promote unity and advocate for the masses.

During the 50th Anniversary celebrations of its establishment, the Commander in Chief acknowledged the contributions of the first PCC during the 1933 general strike and the sacrifices of numerous communist militants who were killed or disappeared. Despite these challenges, the PCC dispatched 1,000 Cuban fighters to support the Spanish Republic, an act of internationalism that brings pride to the nation's history.

Imperialism encountered in the first PCC a tireless opponent, championing the most just and noble causes of the most marginalized and oppressed sectors of a Cuba that had yielded to American ambitions.

A hundred years after that historic date, communist ideas are upheld in our Homeland because they represent the most just principles. These ideas were embraced by Cubans, prioritizing the common good over any form of sectarianism or individualism.

As stated by the Commander in Chief at the conclusion of the 7th Congress of the PCC, the Cuban communists will win.

This work was translated and shared via a License CC-BY-NC