The triumph of the Cuban Revolution in January 1959 was one of the most popular political events of the twentieth century. A social movement that the majority of the Cuban population initially applauded, and for which many risked their lives, the Cuban Revolution captured the imagination. Romantic in its execution, expressing a call for social justice, it also had vast international support. Yet 60 years later, around 25% of its population had left Cuba as a result of their process of political disaffection, disappointment, and sense of betrayal. Among those who sought refuge in other lands, many had once been ardent supporters of the revolution. Five distinct waves of refugees are identified over the course of 60 years.