Ignacio Manuel Altamirano facts for kids
Ignacio Manuel Altamirano Basilio (born November 13, 1834 – died February 13, 1893) was an important Mexican writer, journalist, teacher, and politician. He believed in liberal ideas, which meant he supported freedom and equal rights for people. He wrote a famous novel called Clemencia in 1869. Many people think this book was the first modern Mexican novel.
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Early Life and Education
Ignacio Altamirano was born in Tixtla, in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. He was from the Chontal indigenous people. His father was the mayor of Tixtla, which helped Ignacio go to school there.
Later, he received a scholarship to study in Toluca. This scholarship was given to him by Ignacio Ramírez, who was his teacher and mentor.
His Role in Politics and War
As a politician, Altamirano was a strong supporter of liberal ideas. He sometimes disagreed with other leaders, like Benito Juárez, about how the country should be run.
When France invaded Mexico in 1862, Altamirano understood how serious the situation was. Unlike the Mexican–American War (1846–1848), where Mexicans united against the invaders, the French had support from some Mexican conservatives. Altamirano fought for Mexico's freedom during this time.
Famous Works and Journalism
Altamirano's most famous novel is El Zarco. This story takes place in Yautepec, Morelos, during a time of civil war in Mexico called the Reform War (1857–1860). The book is about an honest and brave blacksmith who falls in love with a proud village girl. However, she runs away with a cruel bandit known as "Zarco Blue Eyes."
He also started many newspapers and magazines. Some of these included El Correo de México (meaning "The Mexico Post"), El Renacimiento ("The Renaissance"), El Federalista ("The Federalist"), La Tribuna ("The Tribune"), and La República ("The Republic"). These publications helped share ideas and news with the public.
Other Important Roles
Altamirano held many important positions in Mexico. From 1881 to 1889, he was the president of the Sociedad Mexicana de Geografía y Estadística. This group focused on geography and statistics in Mexico.
He also worked as a public prosecutor, which means he represented the government in legal cases. He was a judge and even became president of the Supreme Court of Mexico. He also served as a high-ranking official in the Ministry of Public Works and the Economy.
Later Life and Legacy
Ignacio Manuel Altamirano passed away in San Remo, Italy, in 1893. He is remembered as a key figure in Mexican literature and politics. His work helped shape the identity of modern Mexico.
In Spanish: Ignacio Manuel Altamirano para niños
