Cuba and the Independence War in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde [Arabic]

In 1974–75 the people of two West African countries, Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde, put an end to 500 years of Portuguese colonial exploitation. Led by a popular movement forged by Amílcar Cabral, their struggle triggered the collapse of Portugal’s entire colonial empire and brought down the 40-year fascist dictatorship in Portugal itself. Víctor Dreke’s firsthand account brings to life this decisive victory in the wave of anti-imperialist struggles that swept the globe during and after World War II. Cuba’s revolutionary leadership provided vital aid to the African fighters we meet here—the men and women Cabral saw as part of “humanity’s soldiers.” We also meet the Cuban volunteer combatants who joined their struggle. Through their example we come to know the international solidarity extended by millions of Cuban working people whose lives had been transformed by making a genuine socialist revolution in their own country. To read full review(s), please click the REVIEWS & PROMO tab on this page. “A fascinating account both of Cuba’s involvement in the struggle and strategic lessons from the fighting, but also of Cabral’s inspirational leadership.” —Latin American Review of Books “Informed and informative, eloquent, engaging and of immense interest for students, academia, historians, political activists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject…Quite unique.” —Midwest Book Review “Recommended reading for all those interested in Cuba’s internationalist history, at a time when its people need more than ever the solidarity they have so generously offered to so many countries in their struggles for independence and the well-being of their people.” —Cuba France Cooperation Association .