The Cuban Revolution of 1959 is characterized by the overthrow of Fulgencio Batista's regime, led by Fidel Castro. The revolution was marked by widespread discontent against Batista’s authoritarian government, corruption, and social inequality. Castro's 26th of July Movement gained support by promising land reform, social change, and national sovereignty. Following guerilla warfare tactics, they successfully took control of Havana on January 1, 1959. This event profoundly altered Cuba’s political landscape, leading to the establishment of a socialist state and significant shifts in U.S.-Cuba relations, influencing Cold War dynamics in the region.