National Rebellion Day is a public holiday in Cuba, celebrated every year on July 26. It is one of the most important holidays in the country, commemorating the events of July 26, 1953, when Fidel Castro and his men attacked the Moncada Barracks in Santiago and the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Barracks in Bayamo, in an attempt to overthrow the government of Fulgencio Batista.
The coup was unsuccessful and many of Castro and his followers were either killed or imprisoned. However, this action marked the birth of the 26th of July Movement, which later led to the Cuban Revolution that brought Castro to power. In essence, this day marked the beginning of a prolonged struggle for Cuban independence and freedom from Batista’s regime.
During National Rebellion Day, numerous events take place throughout Cuba, including parades, speeches, and public gatherings. It is a day when Cubans remember the struggle for independence and reflect on their national identity and pride. School children are particularly involved, with stories from the revolution being retold and students re-enacting historical moments. Despite the failure of the initial coup, this day symbolizes the determination of the Cuban people to fight for their freedom.