Fidel Castro rejects a military succession

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.

The government’s defence of the central city collapsed, making Batista’s position untenable.

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

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.

Guevara’s column entered the capital and took control of La Cabaña fortress.

Cienfuegos took control of the country’s largest military installation, completing the collapse of Batista’s command in Havana.