Mi Asere Che

I was of the impression that the Korda's image of Che, was basically a fashion statement and iconic representation of rebellion and revolution in countries OUTSIDE of Cuba and that the Cuabanos themselves would just see him as Commandante Guevarra and his legacy taught from history books to schoolkids. Boy was I wrong. His image is basically unmissable! From the time you arrive in the airport you're graced with his presence. He's even on their currency and the most famous being (and the ultimate cuban photo opportunity) the stylized steel replica near the plaza de la revolucion.

Even though, Che himself disapproved of the cult of personality, Cubans themselves (government included) have not been slow to put him to good capitalist use, with street vendors and dollar shops all over the country, making a quick buck from flogging Che t-shirts, keyrings, cartoon figurines, black berets and even CDs of soulful memorial ballads. The original photo can be seen at the museum memorial to che in santa clara.

You got the feeling that something isn't good unless it's got his image as a stamp of approval! From Banks to Service Stations, his image is starring. The next thing is your itchy trigger finger for the camera would be itchier than normal with every passing glimse of his face.

I was absolutely stunned. The souvenir stores made a killing from post cards and photo books of different images not seen outside of cuba of Che, Fidel, Camilo and Raul all in their guerrilla outfits. The best ones were the ones right before the actual revolution where they hiked tru the sierra maestra and ones right after with che and fidel in very strong gestures making speeches etc