The United States recognizes the new Cuban government headed by Manuel Urrutia Lleó after a general strike in early January forced the military Junta Government, left by Batista, to relinquish power to the 26th of July Movement. Fidel Castro arrived in Havana on January 8.
The following month, on February 16, 1959, Castro was sworn in as Prime Minister of Cuba, and accepted the position on the condition that the Prime Minister's powers be increased. In later July, Urrutia tendered his resignation as President. More
