In pics: Facts you didn't know about Cuba's Fidel Castro

Fidel Castro, leader of the Communist Revolution, died at the age of 90, ending an era in Cuba and Latin America. Castro, who was also known as the 'Guerrilla Prince' was one of the most popular leaders of Cuba.

Castro's younger brother, Raul, announced his brother's death on television on Friday. It is said that Fidel Castro was suffering a long battle with illness.

Throught the years, not only did he grow to be a revolutionary leader but he also courted several controversies, including those relating to his ties with the US.

While the world bids farewell to the leader, here are some interesting facts about Castro:

Fidel Castro ruled Cuba as a one-party state for 49 years

Fidel Castro ruled Cuba as a one-party state for 49 years making him the world's third longest serving head of the state. In that time, US had 10 presidents.

Castro delivered the longest speech at the UN

Castro holds the record for the longest speech delivered at the UN at 4 hours and 29 minutes on Sept 26, 1960. His other long speech lasted 7 hours and 30 minutes in Feb 24, 1988.

Castro has survived over 600 assassination plots and attempts

Castro claimed that he survived over 600 assassination attempts or plots masterminded by the CIA and other US-based exiled organisations.

Castro gave up smoking in 1985

Castro had a liking for Cuban cigars but gave them up in 1985 while saying "The best thing you can do with this box of cigars is give them to your enemy."

Castro sported a beard from his younger days

He was known for his iconic beard, which he began to grow while living up in the mountains.

Castro was named as one of the 100 most influential personalities by TIME

Time Magazine in 2012 named Castro as one of the 100 most influential personalities of all time.

Castro's autobiography is titled 'My Life'

Fidel Castro published his autobiography titled 'My Life' in Britain in 2007. The book is a series of interviews done with journalist Ignacio Ramonet.

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