Guevara's ideologies and tactical genius in the art of the guerrilla warfare played a vital role in the revolutions seizure of power in 1959. Since his meeting with Castro in Mexico, Guevara assumed a position of popularity and influence which when combined with his clear revolutionary goals and tactical brilliance served to greatly aid the revolution's cause. Guevara's position in the guerrilla army allowed him to exert a great influence on the revolutionary movement's strategic decision making. According to Castaneda, "Guevara participated actively in political debate influencing issues such as the direction of the struggle, policy for alliance and ideology of the leadership".
Before he joined Castro in Mexico, Guevara gained a vast deal of experience during his travels in Latin America and cultivated associations with many leftist movements (including Bolivia, Guatemala and Peru). Guevara's experience in revolutionary movements around Latin America helped aid Castro's movement especially in terms of his influence in strategic and political decision making. Guevara's ideologies were a key factor which helped shaped the guerrilla army's rapid and dynamic approach towards revolution. Guevara tactical brilliance in the art of guerrilla warfare was pivotal to the success of the