Fidel Castro finally steps down

Finally after 49 years as Cuba's cruel dictator, Fidel Castro has stepped down. Fidel,who is 81 years old, has been suffering from a stomach illness that has left him unable to continue his duties. Fidel gave a statement saying, "I neither will aspire to nor will I accept the position of president of the Council of State and Commander-in-Chief." This may seem like a period of joy and happiness for the people of Cuba, who have lived such an oppressed life, but the power has only been turned over to Fidel's younger brother Raul. This most likely means that no drastic political change will take place and the people of Cuba will still be faced with the same harsh realities. When I was only in sixth grade, one of my teachers was of Cuban heritage. Both of her parents had left Cuba for America because of Fidel Castro. Fidel had complete control over every aspect of the government and military, and the people of Cuba were like prisoners. She always said how she would love to see Cuba, however as long as Fidel Castro was in power that just would not be an option. I wonder if now she will be able to visit her home country or since the Castro family is still in power that will not be an option.