Virgilio Dávila facts for kids

Virgilio Dávila Cabrera (born January 28, 1869 – died August 22, 1943) was an important Puerto Rican poet. He lived during the modern literary era. Besides being a poet, he was also a teacher, a politician, and a businessman.

Growing Up and Learning

Virgilio Dávila was born in the town of Toa Baja. His parents were both teachers, and they had many books. This love for books influenced him from a young age.

He went to private schools for his early education. In 1895, he earned his bachelor's degree from the Civil Institute of Higher Learning. After finishing his studies, Dávila became a teacher in the town of Gurabo.

Life and Work

On October 7, 1898, Virgilio Dávila and his wife had a son named José Antonio Dávila. He was born in the city of Bayamón. José Antonio later followed in his father's footsteps and became a poet too.

Dávila's experiences as a teacher and working in agriculture often appeared in his poems. In 1903, he published his first book of poems called "Patria." This book included poems about famous people like Jose de Diego and Lola Rodríguez de Tió. It also featured poems about Puerto Rico and about love.

In 1904, Dávila helped start a weekly newspaper called "Chantelier." He became its director along with Braulio Dueño Colón.

Serving as Mayor

In 1905, Virgilio Dávila decided to run for Mayor of Bayamón. He won the election! He served as the city's mayor from 1905 to 1910.

Writing and Influence

Dávila worked with Braulio Dueño Colón and Manuel Fernandez Juncos to create a book of songs for schools. He wrote many poems that were printed in newspapers and other publications of his time.

In 1928, he also wrote a special book for his grandchildren, called A Book for my Grandchildren. Virgilio Dávila's writing style was seen as traditional. He was greatly inspired by the famous French writer Victor Hugo.

Famous Poems

Some of Virgilio Dávila's most well-known poems include:

• "Patria" (1903)
• "Viviendo y Amando" (1912)
• "Aromas del Terruño" (1916)
• "Nostalgia"
• "No des tu Tierra al Extraño"

Here is a short part of his poem "No des tu Tierra al Extraño" (which means "Do not give your land to a stranger!"):

Later Life and Legacy

Virgilio Dávila passed away in Bayamón on August 22, 1943. He was buried in the Porta Coeli Cemetery in that city.

Today, a public housing complex, a school, and a street in Bayamón are named after Dávila. This is to honor his contributions and remember his important work.

See also

In Spanish: Virgilio Dávila para niños

• Puerto Rican Poetry
• List of Puerto Rican writers
• List of Puerto Ricans
• Puerto Rican literature
• List of mayors of Bayamón, Puerto Rico