"Query on Uniforms of Batistas Army" Topic

In perusing illustrated histories of the Cuban revolution, I am struck by the super-abundance of ilustrations of Fidel's bearded merry men, but almost nothing of Batista's forces (a general in full dress, or a Havana-based policeman in a Smoky-the-Bear hat if one is lucky).

Surely Batista's military budget ran to a few combat photographers?

Why the dearth of photos of Batista's men in the field?

Does any good source exist for the uniforms of Batista's army?

I purchased a South American-published Osprey-style book that I thought would do, but again it's mostly the Fidelistas, with a couple of Batista generals in full dress, and one private soldier who looks like a smartly-dressed American G.I. of the period, complete with shiny helmet.

Ex-GI uniforms a safe bet…..maybe the 'scruffy style' of US Marine figures would be best…..certainly WW2 weaponry.
Batista was a US puppet dictator with full Washington backing for equipment ………

Gaz has it right, the GI look is correct.

I think the lack of Batista army photos may be due to them losing the war while the plethora of Fidelista photos is due to the subsequent glorification (if that's the right word) of the revolutionary forces in the following years by Castro's government.

Although a movie, I thought Che: Part I did a good job with the uniforms of Batista's forces.

Interesting book (if somewhat expensive): link

Firing Squad: link

Batista & Boys: picture

So, lots of US equpment, just a little less…well…revolutionary and scruffy than Castro's boys.

I would think GI surplus.

Prince Alberts Revenge,

That's the book I got, but it was rather weighted towards the Castro side. I'll go with the "50s G.I." look.

Thanks everyone.

While perhaps not perfectly accurate try renting either Havana or Cuba (both available on DVD) or the more recent Che (part 1).

I would presume one or more directors/producers did some research as in all three movies the Batista army appears to be dressed in a similar manner, 1950's vintage US helmets and web gear, lt khaki uniforms and US M1s BARS, etc.