Cuba: An American History

by Ada Ferrer

Chibás promised to present incontrovertible proof of the theft on his weekly Sunday broadcast of August 5, 1951. He appeared at the station with a small suitcase, which people assumed held the evidence. But for reasons that remain unclear, he presented none. He spoke passionately, repeating general accusations against current and past presidents and against present and former education ministers. Then his voice rose further: “For economic independence, political freedom, and social justice!” he shouted. “Let’s sweep away the government crooks! People of Cuba, rise up and move! People of Cuba, awaken! This is my last knock on the door!” Then he opened his briefcase, took out a gun, and shot himself on-air. But he spoke for too long, and just before the shot rang out, the program cut to a commercial for Café Pilón.