Juan Marrero: A Pillar of Cuban Journalism History

Juan Marrero González, a towering figure in Cuban journalism and its history, passed away a decade ago on June 18. His most celebrated work, "Dos siglos de periodismo en Cuba. Momentos, hechos y rostros" (Two Centuries of Journalism in Cuba. Moments, Facts, and Faces), remains an essential text for journalism students across Cuba.

Marrero was among the last graduates of the Manuel Márquez Sterling Professional School for Journalists in 1958. His career began with co-founding the Prensa Latina news agency in 1959 and the Granma newspaper in 1965. He stayed with Granma until 1994, holding significant roles including head of the Sports section and director of the International Desk for over two decades. He also served as an international commentator and special correspondent.

Colleagues remember Marrero as a "very integral and productive journalist," who was also "demanding and rigorous to the point of perfection with himself." He embodied the principle that "to be a good journalist, one must first be a good human being," demonstrating nobility, justice, authenticity, and a deep love for Cuba.

His contributions extended to other works, such as "Andanzas de Atahualpa Recio," an investigation into the assassination of Ecuadorian journalist Carlos Bastidas Argüello. Marrero also briefly taught journalism theory and practice at the University of Havana and advised numerous students. He received the National Journalism Prize "José Martí" in 2003. His passion for preserving journalistic heritage was evident in his enthusiastic involvement with the website www.cubaperiodistas.cu and his regular columns for Cubadebate, where he remained active until his death.