What type of leader was Fulgencio Batista?

Fulgencio Batista was born in Cuba in 1901, where he later became a soldier and a dictator. During his reign, he jailed political opponents and embezzled funds. He was one of the most powerful and corrupt men in Cuba in the 1950s. He exercised brutal control over thought and speech in the press, the higher education system, and the branches of government. Although elections were held in 1954 and 1958, those elections were rigged to make Batista the only candidate who could win re-election.
During his rule, there was a lack of adequate public services, as Batista was more concerned with enriching himself and his associates than helping and serving the Cuban people. Although there were moments when Batista led efforts to make the lives of his country's people better—such as through education and social programs—his legacy is stained with the memories of corruption and dictatorship. By the end of 1958, most people in Cuba detested Batista, and he fled the country.