Fidel’s small hometown of Biran in eastern Cuba celebrated his birthday every year. He was raised the privileged son of a wealthy plantation owner who basically owned the town. However, he had the state take possession of the plantation along with all other large properties shortly after coming into power in 1959. The UJC, Union of Young Communists, sponsored a large celebration of Fidel’s birthday every year on August 13th although Fidel himself was unable to attend for years because of this failing health. The final celebration, his 90th birthday, was in 2016 as he died a few months later.

There were many lengthy speeches, some accompanied by music, sometimes delivered monotone. However, all received thunderous applause.