José Ferrer de Couto facts for kids
José Ferrer de Couto (born July 14, 1820, in Ferrol – died 1877, in New York City) was a Spanish military officer, historian, and journalist. He was also the founder of a newspaper called El Cronista de Nueva York.
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About José Ferrer de Couto
José Ferrer de Couto was one of thirteen children. His father, Manuel Vicente Ferrer, was a second-lieutenant in the army. José studied at a special military school for sailors and pilots in his hometown.
Early Military Career
In 1837, José became a second-lieutenant himself. He was sent to fight in a conflict against a group called the Carlistas. Later, he wrote a paper called Morale in the Army. This paper caused problems with his commanders. Because of this, he decided to leave the military in 1844. After leaving, he strongly believed that the military should stay out of politics.
Becoming a Writer and Historian
Soon after leaving the army, José Ferrer de Couto started writing books. He published a three-volume set called Album of the Spanish Army. This project was supported by Serafín Estébanez Calderón, who was part of a Spanish military history group.
He then wrote a History of the Royal Spanish Navy. At the same time, he wrote about the Naval Combat at Trafalgar. This book was so good that he received an important award, the cross of the Order of Charles III. He was also named a Commander in the Order of Isabella the Catholic.
Travels and Views on America
When a rebel leader named Narciso López was captured, José Ferrer de Couto traveled to Cuba. While there, he wrote two books. One was called Vindication of the Facts and Administration of the Spaniards in America. The other was America and Spain. This second book was written to challenge the United States and its Monroe doctrine. The Monroe Doctrine was a policy that said European countries should not interfere in the Americas. The money he earned from these books helped support Spain's war efforts.
Starting a Newspaper in New York
In 1863, the owner of La Crónica died. This journal promoted Spanish interests in the United States. José Ferrer de Couto was asked to become its new director. However, he chose to start his own newspaper instead. He named it El Cronista de Nueva York.
In his newspaper, he wrote about many things. He spoke out against what he called "piracy" in the Caribbean Sea. He believed this was caused by powerful countries trying to take control. He also thought that if Abraham Lincoln became President, it would lead to war with Spain. He also disagreed with Lincoln's plans to end slavery. In 1864, he published a controversial book defending slavery. This book was available in both English and Spanish.
Challenges and Duels
His newspaper often tried to show what he saw as "lies" in the American press. He also fought against Cuban people living in the U.S. who wanted Cuba to be independent from Spain. Because of his strong opinions, he was challenged to several duels. Duels were illegal in the U.S., so he fought them in Canada.
In 1875, he was challenged by Juan Bellido de Luna, another newspaper editor. But at the last moment, Colonel Pío Rosado took Bellido's place. This duel happened in Europe, near the border of Belgium. During the duel, José Ferrer de Couto was wounded on his right cheek.
Later Life and Legacy
José Ferrer de Couto passed away in 1877. The New York Times newspaper published a long and positive article about him after his death. He was first buried in New York. Later, his remains were moved to Madrid, Spain.
See also
In Spanish: José Ferrer de Couto para niños
