Fidel Castro served only 18 months of a 15-year prison sentence for leading an attack on the Moncada Army Barracks. Dictator, Fulgencio Batista caved to public demands and freed all the attackers. During their captivity, they had enjoyed privileges for political prisoners -comfortable living conditions, visitors, plentiful reading materials, and participation in group sports. During the 51-year Castro regime political prisoners have been subjected to very harsh conditions, hard labor, and appalling treatment, including torture, lack of medical attention, and even killings by guards. Many have resorted to hunger strikes demanding humane treatment; sadly, some have paid with their lives.
