José Fernández Madrid

Colombian statesman, writer, and physician

José Fernández Madrid

José Luis Álvaro Alvino Fernández Madrid (19 February 1789 – 28 June 1830) was a prominent Colombian statesman, writer, and physician. He played a significant role in the early years of Colombia's independence from Spain and was a key figure in the political and cultural life of the nation.

Early life and education

José Fernández Madrid was born in Cartagena, in the Viceroyalty of New Granada, which is present-day Colombia. He was the son of José Fernández de Madrid y Canal and María Josefa del Carmen Martínez de Pinillos y de la Vega. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in literature and the sciences.

He pursued his education at the Colegio Mayor de Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Bogotá, where he studied philosophy and law. Later, he traveled to Spain to further his education in medicine, earning a degree from the University of Valencia.

Political career

Fernández Madrid's political career began during the tumultuous period of the Colombian War of Independence. He was a member of the Supreme Junta of Cartagena, which declared independence from Spain in 1811. His eloquence and leadership skills quickly made him a prominent figure in the independence movement.

In 1814, he was appointed as the President of the United Provinces of New Granada, a position he held during a critical phase of the struggle for independence. His presidency was marked by efforts to consolidate the newly formed republic and to resist Spanish attempts to regain control.

Literary contributions

In addition to his political work, Fernández Madrid was a prolific writer. He contributed to the cultural life of Colombia through his essays, poetry, and plays. His literary works often reflected the themes of liberty and national identity, resonating with the spirit of the independence movement.

Later life and legacy

After the fall of the republican government, Fernández Madrid went into exile in Jamaica and later in the United States. He continued to advocate for Colombian independence through his writings and correspondence with other exiled leaders.

He returned to Colombia after the successful liberation campaigns led by Simón Bolívar. However, his health deteriorated, and he died in Santa Marta in 1830.

Statue of José Fernández Madrid in Cartagena

Fernández Madrid is remembered as a key figure in Colombia's fight for independence and as a cultural icon. His contributions to both the political and literary fields have left a lasting impact on Colombian history.

Related pages

• Colombian Declaration of Independence
• Simón Bolívar
• Cartagena, Colombia
• Del Rosario University