Apostle of Cuban Independence

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Jose Marti, also known as the “Apostle of Cuban Independence,” was a key figure in the success of the Cuban War of Independence against Spain in the 19th century. Jose worked alongside many Afro-Cuban revolutionaries, getting the support of Cuban workers and socialist leaders to create the Cuban Revolutionary Party. Today, he stands as a symbol of freedom, liberty, and democracy, all of which he fought for during his life through his revolutionary writings and indigenous leadership. Truly, it was through his essays, poems, and journalism that Jose fueled the Cuban revolution.

In honor of this national hero, the Jose Marti Memorial was built in 1958. The memorial has a star-shaped tower, with an observation deck and a hall of Jose’s life story, and a statue of Jose over the Plaza de la Revolucion. This plaza is known for holding the largest, Cuban demonstrations and for being the site to defend revolutionary principles and freedoms. Jose also lives on in his poems. Jose’s Versos sencillos make up what is considered the patriotic song of Cuba, “Guantanamera.”

I think it is very fitting to remember Jose’s words in today’s political climate, as they remind us all how important it is to participate in our democracy and how lucky we are to be able to have the freedom to vote in the first place: “The vote is a trust more delicate than any other, for it involves not just the interests of the voter, but his life, honor, and future as well.”

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