Havana: One of the most iconic political figure of the 20th century and former Cuban President Fidel Castro has died, he was 90 years old.

His younger brother and successor as president Raul Castro announced the news on state television.

Castro toppled the government in 1959, introducing a Communist revolution. He defied the US for decades, surviving many assassination plots.

His supporters said he had given Cuba back to the people. Critics saw him as a dictator.

Further adding to his statement Raul Castro said ”  Fidel Castro  would be cremated later on Saturday.

There is to be several days of national mourning on the island.

Raul Castro ended the announcement by shouting the revolutionary slogan: “Towards victory, always!”