William Morgan, a Cuban rebel, is the guest on this episode. The podcast covers topics such as Morgan's background, his escape from a little town, his involvement with Cuban rebels, their uncomfortable experience in the jungle, the spread of democracy and the war in Iraq, assassination plots against Fidel Castro, and strategies to topple Fidel.
William Morgan joins the Cuban Revolution seeking adventure, revenge, and to fight on the side of good.
Morgan's involvement in the revolution leads to suspicions of him being a CIA infiltrator and a failed assassination attempt on Fidel Castro.
Despite being seen as a legend and hero in Cuba, Morgan faces backlash and a bounty on his head for his opposition to communism.
Deep dives
Morgan joins the Cuban Revolution
Morgan, a former ex-con and circus performer, becomes involved in the Cuban Revolution and joins the rebels fighting against the Batista regime. He is motivated by a desire for adventure and to fight on the side of good, as well as seeking revenge for a friend tortured by Batista. Morgan demonstrates his skills in martial arts and gains the trust of the rebel group, eventually becoming a military chief. Despite initial suspicions, the rebels consider a goodwill US tour to gain American support. However, Morgan's involvement takes a turn when he agrees to an assassination plot against Fidel Castro, which ultimately fails.
Morgan's allegiance and the FBI investigation
Morgan's allegiance becomes a point of contention as he is suspected of being a CIA infiltrator by the Cuban rebels and the FBI begins investigating his activities. He is confronted by FBI agents but manages to escape their custody. Morgan remains in contact with both Fidel Castro and the mob, as they try to secure his services. However, he ultimately reveals the plot to Castro, leading to a failed assassination attempt. Morgan's US citizenship is stripped and he considers returning to Toledo with his wife, but eventually becomes a Cuban citizen.
Morgan's reputation and involvement in the revolution
Morgan's involvement in the Cuban Revolution confuses both his Cuban and American counterparts. Despite being seen as a legend and a hero in Cuba, Morgan remains opposed to communism and expresses concerns about its impact on the country. He is praised for his skills and involvement in the revolution, but faces backlash and a bounty on his head from those who feel betrayed by his actions.
William Morgan becomes a respected rebel leader
William Morgan, known as Marnarro, joins a rebel group in Cuba and gains their admiration and trust as a result of his sense of humor. He helps the rebels in an ambush against the Petista army, resulting in a successful retreat. Morgan's expertise in guerrilla warfare leads to his promotion to Comandante. The US government becomes suspicious of his role in the revolution.
Morgan's downfall and imprisonment
Morgan's relationship with Fidel Castro and the communist influence in Cuba deteriorate. Morgan is accused of being a triple agent and is arrested, imprisoned, and sentenced to death. Olga, Morgan's wife, is also arrested and faces torture and solitary confinement. Morgan's execution is brutal, and Olga spends a decade in prison before being released and reuniting with her family in the US.