The Battle of Ideas was preceded by popular disillusionment in the economy after the crisis of the Special Period, and a growing embrace of capitalism via dollarization.

The effort for ideological revitalization began after Elián González's return, because it was seen as a breakthrough diplomatic success, after years of crisis and internal decline.

The Battle of Ideas attempted to emphasize human development, deemphasize economic growth, and return to the ideological spirit of the 1960s.

[1][2] Cuba also began forging closer diplomatic ties with Pink tide governments, often providing medical services.

Soon after, Raul Castro took over his brother's presidential duties, and began to rollback the charismatic ethos and policy of the Battle of Ideas.

González floated at sea on an inner tube until he was rescued by two fishermen, who handed him over to the United States Coast Guard.

[12] Four hours after he was taken from the house in Miami, González and his father were reunited at Andrews Air Force Base.

A few days after the march the "Group of the Battle of Ideas" was formed by the Young Communist League and the Federation of University Students.