DS, in Spanish, two pages, 8 x 12.5, June 19, 1959. Signed at the conclusion by Castro as Prime Minister. Important document reads, in part: “Let It Be Known: That the Board of Ministers has agreed, and I have sanctioned, the following: Whereas: The Ministry of Social Well-being is authorized, pursuant to the postulates of the Revolution, to provide for the people of Cuba the resources necessary for the immediate resolution of the prevailing problems at the heart of the Cuban family. Whereas: It is necessary for the Ministry of Social Well-being to fulfill the purposes that make an immediate benefit possible for people that find themselves in a precarious position, without other alternative than that of urgently turning to the protection of the State. Therefore: In use of the powers conferred upon it, the Board of Ministers resolves to order the following: LAW No. 398
Article 1: To concede a one-time credit in the sum of SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS ($600,000.00) to the Ministry of Social Well-being for the purpose of creating a Fund that allows it to provide immediate assistance to those persons to whom it is essential to lend social assistance, due to the urgency of their material needs. This also includes all those whom, as a consequence of the fight against tyranny, lost their goods and that which is considered necessary, bestowing upon them the due protection that lies within the scope of this office.
Article 2: The Paymaster of the Ministry of Social Well-being shall formulate a request of funds for the total sum that this Law determines, for its deposit into a checking account at the National Bank of Cuba. To that effect, the opening of a checking account at the National Bank of Cuba on behalf of the Ministry of Social Well-being is decreed.” Beautifully suede-matted and framed with two images of Castro to an overall size of 52.5 x 22. In fine condition, with an embossed seal under Castro’s signature. The blue seal is crisp and intact and retains its original ribbon.
In keeping with the ideals of the revolution, which had finished its overthrow of the government in January, Castro began to institute social programs that promoted equality and well-being. The Ministry of Social Welfare oversaw many progressive reforms, including lowering housing costs, increasing accessibility to healthcare and immunizations, and building schools and old-age homes. The fascinating language of this document demonstrates a genuine concern for the Cuban people, seeking to aid the "Cuban family" and those who "find themselves in a precarious position," as well as lingering revolutionary rhetoric, mentioning the "fight against tyranny." An extraordinary document which captures the revolutionary fervor and egalitarian ideals of 1959 Cuba. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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