Feliz Cumpleaños

Today in 1851 the great Uruguay writer Eduardo Acevedo Diaz was born in Montevideo and is considered the country’s first novelist. Diaz’ literary genius was evident early as seen in several politically provocative articles he wrote.

Diaz is considered the founder of the gauchismo literary movement celebrating the life of the gaucho in Latin America. His anti-government writing resulted in his exile to Argentina where he wrote most of his novels that include Brenda, Nativa and Grito de Gloria.

It was, however, his 1894 novel Soledad this “masterful poem” that is considered his greatest work. Many believe Soledad best captures what it was like to live and struggle in Uruguay and Argentina during this time. The book is considered the most accurate historical representation of the times.

Diaz remained in Buenos Aires until his death on June 18, 1921.