Raúl Castro's Santiago Life: A Bond Forged in Revolution and Affection

Raúl Castro's relationship with Santiago de Cuba is portrayed as a lifelong, deeply personal bond, woven into the fabric of the province's history and the lives of its people. From his early education at the Colegio Dolores in the 1930s and 40s to his pivotal role in the revolution, his connection to this eastern Cuban region is presented as foundational.

The article recounts a poignant moment from 1958 when, as a rebel leader, Raúl visited a field hospital where a young girl, Ana María Poll, was being treated for injuries sustained during a bombing raid. He personally carried her and promised an end to such crimes. Decades later, he still inquires about her, a gesture that has earned him profound affection, with Ana María reportedly viewing him "like a father."

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he behaves like a Santiaguero more, cheerful and also brave.

This deep connection extends to the city of Santiago itself, where he is described as behaving "like a true Santiaguero, cheerful and brave." The sentiment is mutual, with locals like Francis Rondón Gómez expressing unwavering loyalty, quoting lyrics that suggest those not aligned with Fidel are not aligned with Raúl either. His presence is felt throughout the province, marked by over 85 years of significant events, from his schooling to his role in liberating towns and cities during the revolution and his marriage to Vilma.

The narrative emphasizes Raúl's enduring legacy in Santiago, linking his personal history, including his education, his actions during the Moncada barracks assault, his imprisonment, and the establishment of the II Front Oriental, directly to the province's revolutionary narrative. His life, from childhood to his leadership, is presented as inextricably tied to Santiago, making him not just a historical figure but a beloved, integral part of the region's identity.

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those who are not from Fidel, those are not from Raúl