Old and New Politics in Cuba: Revisiting Young Eddy Chibás, 1927–1940

Abstract

Eduardo "Eddy" Chibás is mainly known for his anticorruption zeal during the late 1940s and early 1950s. His early political ideas, devised when he was a member of the Student Directorate during the late 1920s and early 1930s, have garnered scant notice despite being widely influential. After the revolution of 1933, Chibás believed that traditional politics had become toxic and could be remedied only by figures shorn of self-interest or greed who prized Cuba's well-being above all. Chibás lived these ideals by shunning political affiliation, eschewing public office (including an offer to serve as Havana's mayor), and cultivating influence through the radio and journalism. In 1938, he dropped his objection to party membership and joined the Auténticos. However, Chibás insisted that the party represent a new brand of politics, and he sought to expel unprincipled members. During the 1940 presidential campaign, Chibás convinced Ramón Grau San Martín to eschew his considerable fortune in favor of radio appeals and the enthusiasm of Auténtico supporters. Chibás won a congressional seat that year without spending a centavo, thereby proving his new politics could triumph. Cuban revolutionaries from the 1950s were especially attuned to Chibás's disgust with shady deals or politiquería. Revolutionary Cuba's emphasis on ethics and probity in public life remains a testament to Chibás.