Alba de Céspedes (1911–1997) was a Cuban-Italian novelist and journalist whose works explored feminist themes against the backdrop of 20th-century political upheavals. Born in Rome to Cuban diplomat Carlos Manuel de Céspedes y Quesada and Italian mother Laura Bertini, she gained prominence with banned novels like "Nessuno Torna Indietro" (1938) and "La Fuga" (1940), which challenged fascist ideologies. Her wartime activities as Resistance radio personality Clorinda for Radio Partigiana led to multiple imprisonments, cementing her reputation as both literary figure and political dissident.
De Céspedes's writing career began in journalism, contributing to publications including La Stampa and Epoca before her 1935 literary debut "L’Anima Degli Altri." Her novels, often centering on women's struggles for autonomy, reflected her dual cultural heritage and anti-fascist convictions. After World War II, she relocated to Paris, where she continued writing until her death. The granddaughter of Cuban independence leader Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, her life bridged revolutionary legacies across continents and generations.