Frank País: Architect of Cuba’s Betrayed Revolution

José Alvarez
Universal Publishers (2009)
ISBN 9781599429175
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (7/09)


Award-winning author José Alvarez unveils the untold story of Frank País and chronicles his role in the Cuban insurrection against Batista during the years 1952-1957. This is a moving story the world will memorialize because it touches the heart as it deals with God, patriotism, bravery, heroism, and the motherland of Cuba.

“Frank País: Architect of Cuba’s Betrayed Revolution” provides an enlightening look at a public figure who has been hidden from the world’s eye for over 50 years. Alvarez has provided detailed background information to establish the fact that País was not only the national chief of action but also the top leader of the National Directorate.

País was deeply troubled by the struggle of Cuba’s rural inhabitants and the importance of an agrarian economy. A strong believer in the role of civil society in a democracy, Frank became obsessed with changing Cuba. He was disturbed by the two faces of Havana. The paradise under the stars atmosphere contrasted with the political corruption, social vices, drug trafficking, gambling, sex trade, and police extortion. Alvarez outlines Frank’s dreams and furnishes details on his planned strategy and the many facets of his preparation: gathering the weapons, training the combatants, providing uniforms, first aid, arranging quarters, favorable propaganda, and the military plans.

País spearheaded the grouping of dozens of private associations to support the M-26-7. His groups became known as the Civic Resistance Movement and later another movement the Action National Revolutionary. Known for his deep democratic convictions Frank is described as charismatic, a quick mind, idealistic, extremely discreet, mature beyond his years, brave, serene, and honest. Unfortunately his ideals and leadership gifts were exploited. It has been speculated that Frank may have been the Cuban idol who cast a shadow on Fidel Castro’s revolution and that this may have led to his mysterious death at the age of 22.

Alvarez, himself, was a militant in the 26 of July Movement during the years 1955-1960. He writes not only from the perceptions of his own experience but has been thorough in his research, as is evidenced in the well-documented notes, bibliography, and index. He draws from the many writings from within Cuba weighed against the observations of Frank’s only living brother, Augustin. The numerous illustrations, maps, timelines, and photos add a touch of realism and clarity to the narrative.

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