Rebel forces secure Santa Clara

Forces under Che Guevara attacked strategic positions in Santa Clara, Cuba’s central transport hub.

Local activists supplied intelligence, guides and support as rebel columns entered Cuba’s central city.

Guevara’s fighters disabled and captured a train carrying troops and weapons, breaking a central pillar of Santa Clara’s defence.

Arms and ammunition from the derailed armoured train were used against remaining government positions in Santa Clara.

After prolonged resistance, the government garrison surrendered to Camilo Cienfuegos, clearing the road toward Havana.

Fulgencio Batista left the country before dawn as his government and armed forces disintegrated.

Castro denounced attempts by senior officers to transfer power without a complete revolutionary victory.

A nationwide strike prevented remnants of the old regime from consolidating a military junta.

Rebel commanders accepted the surrender of the city, where Castro proclaimed the triumph of the revolution.

Speaking in Santiago, he warned against replacing Batista with another military arrangement and called for continued popular mobilization.