Debate on the Historical Facets of Calixto García in Holguin

The theoretical portion of the national seminar dedicated to Calixto García, General of the Three Wars, began at the Calixto García Birthplace Museum in Holguin. Focusing on the contradictions and enduring relevance of his figure.

Dr. Paúl Sarmiento, director of the Center for Studies on Culture and Identity at the University of Holguin (UHO), opened the day with a lecture addressing events surrounding García Íñiguez’s life. From his initial involvement in the 1868 independence movement.

He began by characterizing a 29-year-old Calixto. Quite different from the one the Americans encountered during the 1895 war. Contrasting him with the figure of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, one of the leading figures of the insurrection. As well as García’s role during the internal conflicts among the commanders of the Ten Years’ War.

Before a young audience, primarily composed of primary and secondary school students. The historian emphasized the importance of recognizing historical figures as men and women with their own contradictions and argued for the need to study the underlying reasons, contexts, and circumstances of these contradictions rather than simply judging them.

Moreover he stressed that our educational system sometimes falls into a pattern of idealizing patriots. That it is the responsibility of teachers and researchers to disseminate and discuss the reasons behind their decisions and conflicts.

This debate, part of the tenth National Seminar “To the General of the Three Wars,” aims to introduce children and young people to the historical figures of Calixto and his mother, Lucía Íñiguez. Starting in the city that gave birth to the illustrious patriot. Drawing on the documentation housed in the Birthplace Museum.

During this event, the young people will participate in exchanges at the Federation of Cuban Women, the La Periquera Provincial Museum, and the Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage.

Participants will also attend exhibitions of poetry, essays, narratives, software, music, and other artistic and design works submitted from schools across the country. As well as book and article presentations focusing on the actions and thought of Major General Calixto García.

The seminar will conclude tomorrow with awards for the best presentations in the categories of Relevant, Outstanding, and Honorable Mention. Granted by a jury composed of PhDs and Masters of Science, graduates of the University of Holguin (UHO), as well as specialists and historians from various provinces.

With information from CNA

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