2017-01-28 Sat

“One just principle from the depths of a cave is more powerful than an army” – Jose Marti

Jose Marti, a Cuban national hero and important figure in Latin American literature was born on 28th January 1853. Jose was born to poor Spanish immigrant parents in Havana.

He originally pursued studies in painting before turning his energies to writing. By the time he was 16, his poetry and other work had appeared in print. At the same time, he was developing his literary talents, Martí was forming his political consciousness as well. He was passionate about the growing revolutionary efforts to liberate Cuba from Spain.

He traveled extensively in Spain, Latin America, and the United States, raising awareness and support for the cause of Cuban independence. His unification of the Cuban émigré community, particularly in Florida, was crucial to the success of the Cuban War of Independence against Spain. He was a key figure in the planning and execution of this war, as well as the designer of the Cuban Revolutionary Party and its ideology.

Marti is considered one of the great turn-of-the-century Latin American intellectuals. His written works include a series of poems, essays, letters, lectures, novel, and a children's magazine. He also wrote for numerous Latin American and American newspapers.

This father of Cuban Independence has been honoured by series of stamps not only issued by Cuba but also by several Philatelic Bureaus. India Post also issued a special commemorative stamp with the denomination of Rs.11.00. Issued in the year 1997, this stamp shows the portrait of this brilliant revolutionary.