José Celso Barbosa

Jose Celso Barbosa

José Celso Barbosa (July 27, 1857 – September 21, 1921) was a Puerto Rican physician, sociologist, and politician. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of Puerto Rico and is often referred to as the "Father of the Statehood for Puerto Rico" movement.

Early Life and Education

Barbosa was born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. He was the son of a freedman and a seamstress. Despite the racial and economic challenges of his time, Barbosa excelled academically. He attended the Jesuit Seminary in San Juan and later moved to the United States to pursue higher education.

In 1875, Barbosa enrolled at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he earned his medical degree in 1880. He was the first Puerto Rican and one of the first persons of African descent to graduate from the university.

Medical Career

Upon returning to Puerto Rico, Barbosa established a successful medical practice in Bayamón. He was a pioneer in the field of public health and introduced several innovations in medical practice on the island. Barbosa was also a strong advocate for vaccination and sanitation.

Political Career

Barbosa's political career began in the late 19th century. He was a staunch supporter of statehood for Puerto Rico and founded the Puerto Rican Republican Party in 1899. The party advocated for the island's admission as a state of the United States.

In 1900, Barbosa was appointed to the Executive Council of Puerto Rico, the upper house of the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico. He served in this capacity until 1917, when the Jones-Shafroth Act was enacted, granting U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans and restructuring the island's government.

Legacy

Barbosa's contributions to Puerto Rican society are commemorated in various ways. The José Celso Barbosa House Museum in Bayamón is dedicated to his life and work. Additionally, July 27, his birthday, is celebrated as José Celso Barbosa Day in Puerto Rico.

Barbosa's advocacy for statehood and his efforts in the fields of medicine and public health have left a lasting impact on Puerto Rican society. He is remembered as a visionary leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of his people.

See Also

• Puerto Rican Republican Party
• Jones-Shafroth Act
• Statehood movement in Puerto Rico
• Public health