Fidel Castro came to Harlem - September 18, 1960 (Harlem History Prod.)

On September 18, 1960, Prime Minister of Cuba, Fidel Castro arrived in New York City for the 15th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Originally scheduled to stay at the elite Shelbourne Hotel in Manhattan, they allegedly demanded $10,000 in advance of the Cuban delegation’s stay to cover any damage they might cause.
It was rumored that Castro's enterouge had “killed, plucked, and cooked chickens in their rooms at the Shelbourne and extinguished cigars on expensive carpets.” Instead Castro checked in at the Hotel Theresa (Nicknamed the Waldorf Asotria of Harlem). Harlem was a more gracious host to Castro. Crowds gathered outside the Hotel Theresa, as the honored
guest held court in his room. He received official visits from foreign dignitaries and civil rights leaders.