Che Guevara was one of the most iconic and controversial revolutionaries of the 20th century. Below is a summary of key information about him:

Basic Information

· Full Name: Ernesto Rafael Guevara de la Serna(
· Birth/Death: June 14, 1928 (Rosario, Argentina) / October 9, 1967 (La Higuera, Bolivia)
· Nationality and Identity: Argentine-born, later became one of the core leaders of the Cuban Revolution.
· Nickname: "Che" (a colloquial term in Spanish meaning "brother" or "friend").

Revolutionary Timeline

Guevara's life journeyed from medical student to international revolutionary:

· 1951-1952: Traveled around South America on a motorcycle with his friend Alberto Granado. This journey exposed him firsthand to widespread poverty and injustice, profoundly influencing his later thoughts.
· 1955: Met Fidel Castro and his brothers in Mexico City and joined their revolutionary organization, the "26th of July Movement."
· 1956-1959: Participated in the Cuban Revolution. In November 1956, he returned to Cuba aboard the yacht "Granma" with Castro and others to carry out armed struggle. He grew into an outstanding military commander during the war and played a key role in the revolution's victory.
· 1959-1965: After the Cuban Revolution's success, held important positions in the new government, including President of the National Bank and Minister of Industries. He visited China in 1960 and met Mao Zedong.
· 1965: Resigned from all positions in Cuba, renounced Cuban citizenship, aiming to export the revolution to other regions.
· 1965-1967: Led guerrilla warfare in the Congo (Kinshasa) and Bolivia.
· October 8, 1967: Wounded and captured during a battle in the Yuro mountain pass in Bolivia; he was executed by Bolivian forces the next day at age 39.

Core Ideology and Evaluation

Guevara's image and ideas are multifaceted and complex:

· Revolutionary ideals and "Guevarism": He believed that a small number of determined revolutionaries could ignite a broader people's revolution through "guerrilla centers," a theory known as "Guevarism." He was a staunch internationalist, advocating for exporting revolution to oppressed regions worldwide.
· Personal character: Many supporters see him as a symbol of purity, selflessness, and sacrifice. Castro once described him as "an impeccable model in action, flawless in conduct."
· Controversies and criticisms: After the Cuban Revolution, he was responsible for judging and executing former regime war criminals, which has led to accusations of "coldness." Some of his economic proposals (such as attempting to abolish money) are considered overly idealistic and difficult to implement.
· Cultural symbol: His portrait wearing a beret and with a beard has become a universal symbol of counterculture, revolution, and rebellion worldwide.

In summary, Che Guevara was a complex historical figure who transformed from a doctor into a revolutionary leader. He is both an admired idealist hero and a controversial radical revolutionary, with influence that has transcended politics to become a global cultural phenomenon.

If you are interested in a specific phase of his life (such as particular battles of the Cuban Revolution, his economic ideas) or related artistic works (like the film "The Motorcycle Diaries"), I can provide further information.