 Although there are varying accounts , it is estimated that several hundred people were executed nationwide during this time , with Guevara 's jurisdictional death total at La Cabaña ranging from 55 to 105 ( see reference ) . Conflicting views exist of Guevara 's attitude towards the executions at La Cabaña . Some exiled opposition biographers report that he relished the rituals of the firing squad , and organized them with gusto , while others relate that Guevara pardoned as many prisoners as he could . What is acknowledged by all sides is that Guevara had become a " hardened " man , who had no qualms about the death penalty or summary and collective trials . If the only way to " defend the revolution was to execute its enemies , he would not be swayed by humanitarian or political arguments " . This is further confirmed by a February 5 , 1959 , letter to Luis Paredes López in Buenos Aires where Guevara states unequivocally " The executions by firing squads are not only a necessity for the people of Cuba , but also an imposition of the people . " 
