Born: 1920 (Media Luna, Oriente, Cuba).
Died: 1980 (Pilón, Cuba).
Biography:
Celia Sánchez Manduley (May 9, 1920 – January 11, 1980) was a Cuban revolutionary, politician, researcher, and archivist. She played a pivotal role in the Cuban Revolution and was a close collaborator of Fidel Castro. Throughout her life, Sánchez displayed unwavering commitment to the cause of the revolution and became an influential figure in shaping the socialist society of Cuba.
Sánchez was born in Media Luna, Oriente, Cuba, but later moved to Pilón. She grew up in a relatively affluent family, with her father, Dr. Manuel Sánchez, being a doctor. Unfortunately, her mother Acacia passed away early in Sánchez’s childhood. Despite this tragedy, she received a good education and displayed intellectual prowess, although she never attended university. After completing high school, Sánchez dedicated her time to assisting her father’s medical practice before devoting herself to the Cuban Revolution alongside Fidel Castro.
The Cuban Revolution sought to overthrow the repressive regime of Fulgencio Batista, and Sánchez played an integral role in this struggle. She was one of the founders of the 26th of July Movement in Manzanillo and actively participated in the rebellion against the Batista government. Sánchez’s contribution to the revolution was multifaceted, starting as an arms runner and later becoming a combatant in the Sierra Maestra. In fact, she holds the distinction of being the first female guerrilla fighter in the Sierra Maestra.
As part of the general staff of the rebel army, Sánchez organized and coordinated key operations during the revolution. She played a crucial role in planning and executing the landing of the Granma, which brought Fidel Castro and other revolutionaries to Cuba from Mexico. Sánchez also ensured that the rebel army was well-supplied, making arrangements for reinforcements and providing weapons, food, and medical supplies. Her resourcefulness and dedication were evident in her creative methods of communication, such as using butterfly flowers to conceal secret telegrams.
Sánchez’s contributions continued even after the triumph of the revolution. She held important positions in the new government, serving as the secretary to the presidency of the Council of Ministers and in the Department of Services of the Council of State. Her work spanned various sectors, including education, healthcare, and social welfare. Sánchez played a vital role in the implementation of policies that aimed to build a more equitable and just society in Cuba.
Beyond her political achievements, Sánchez was known for her warm and compassionate nature. She formed close friendships with fellow revolutionaries, such as Haydée Santamaría and Frank País, with whom she collaborated closely. Her commitment to the cause of the revolution, combined with her compassion for the Cuban people, earned her the admiration and respect of her comrades and the wider population.
Celia Sánchez Manduley’s contributions to the Cuban Revolution and her subsequent work in government left an indelible impact on the history of Cuba. Her unwavering dedication, intelligence, and resourcefulness paved the way for social progress and equality in the country. Sánchez continues to be remembered as one of Cuba’s most prominent revolutionaries and a trailblazer in the struggle for a just and socialist society.