Rafael Gómez Ortega facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rafael Gómez Ortega
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Rafael Gómez "Gallito" Ortega in a "monumental pass" given to his first bullfight on October 8, 1912 in Madrid
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| Born | June 16, 1882 |
| Died | May 25, 1960 (aged 77) Seville, Spain
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| Resting place | Cemetery of San Fernando, Spain |
| Nationality | Spaniard |
| Other names | Gallito, El Gallo (The Rooster) and Divine Bald |
| Occupation | bullfighter |
| Spouse(s) |
Pastora Imperio
(m. 1911; div. 1912) |
| Parents |
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| Relatives | José Gómez Ortega (brother) and Fernando Gómez Ortega (brother) |
| Family | Familia Gallo |
Rafael Gómez Ortega (1882 – 1960) was a famous bullfighter from Spain. People also knew him as El Gallo, which means "The Rooster". He was one of the most well-known bullfighters in the early 1900s.
Rafael came from a family of talented bullfighters. His father, Fernando Gómez García, was a matador. His younger brother, José Gómez Ortega, was also a famous matador.
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Who Was Rafael Gómez Ortega?
Rafael Gómez Ortega was born on June 16, 1882, in Madrid, Spain. He grew up in a family deeply involved in bullfighting. This background helped him become a skilled bullfighter himself.
His Unique Bullfighting Style
Rafael was known for his very unique ways of fighting bulls. One technique was called espantada, or "sudden flight". This meant he would sometimes quickly run away when the bull entered the ring!
He also had another unusual move: fighting bulls while sitting in a chair. These methods made his bullfights very entertaining for the audience. People loved to watch him.
A Popular Performer
Because he was so entertaining, Rafael was asked to come out of retirement many times. He retired from bullfighting seven different times, but fans always wanted him back! He finally stopped fighting bulls for good on October 4, 1936.
Some people said he was sometimes brave and sometimes scared of the bulls. He would be brave when he felt like it, but might panic at other times. This mix of bravery and fear was part of his unique style.
Later in Life
Later in his life, Rafael needed help with money. Another famous bullfighter, Juan Belmonte, supported him. Rafael was also briefly married to Pastora Imperio, a very famous flamenco dancer.
Rafael Gómez Ortega passed away on May 25, 1960. He was 77 years old. He is remembered as a bullfighter who brought a lot of excitement and unique style to the bullring.
