University of Miami to host event on new book on Cuban patriot José Martí

By Barbara Gutierrez [email protected] 05-19-2026

José Martí is often called one of Cuba's founding fathers and its most distinguished patriot. But he is much more than that.

As a writer, journalist, poet, and revolutionary, Martí remains one of the most influential figures in Latin American history.

Born on Jan. 28, 1853, he grew up to be one of the most fervent critics and later warriors against the Spanish domination of Cuba. He was incarcerated and later fled the island, spending several years of exile.

He returned to Cuba and fought alongside the "mambises," guerrilla fighters who made up the Cuban Liberation Army during the 19th-century wars for independence against Spain. He was killed at the Battle of Dos Ríos on May 19,1895.

It is his poetry that has gained the most popularity. The oeuvre include poems that explore human emotion, as well as political and philosophical topics. Many critics have described his poetic contributions as the precursors of modernism since it combines musicality, sincerity, and vivid imagery.

On Wednesday, May 27, at 6 p.m. the Cuban Heritage Collection at University of Miami Libraries will host a panel of experts at the Roberto C. Goizueta Pavillion to discuss the new book, "Hágase el verso. Poesía reunida de José Martí," as well as the relevance of Martí in today's world. The panelists include Uva de Aragón, writer and journalist; Douglas Gómez Barrueta, poet and journalist; and Sergio Andricaín, sociologist, researcher, and cultural promoter.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Kelly Martínez-Grandal, writer and poet.

The book compiles several of his collections of poetry-including the famous "Versos Sencillos" and "Ismaelillo"-and includes three precious items from the Cuban Heritage Collection's Martí holdings.

Most notable is a letter the patriot wrote to Máximo Gómez, the commander in chief of the Cuban Revolutionary Forces. This was part of an extensive correspondence between Martí and Gómez that focused on the intellectual and strategic foundation of Cuba's war of independence against Spain.

"Jose Martí's writings remain central to Cuban identity and cultural memory, continuing to resonate across generations through their humanity, vision, and enduring relevance," said Amanda Moreno-Schroeder, Esperanza Bravo de Varona Chair and director of the Cuban Heritage Collection. "At the Cuban Heritage Collection, we are honored to preserve materials that connect readers and scholars directly to Martí's life and legacy. Their inclusion in 'Hágase el verso: Poesía reunida de José Martí' underscore the importance of safeguarding and providing access to the historical record for future generations."

A black-and-white photograph of Martí in New York alongside his friends Gonzalo de Quesada and his wife, Angelina Miranda, is also included in the book, as is a handwritten note to Melitina Azpeitia, the 11-year-old daughter of friends in Key West, Florida, who had established a youth club called "Porvenir de Cuba" and raised $31.25 to give to Martí to help with the revolutionary war.

While in exile, Martí became a tireless orator and travelled the United States, raising funds for the war in Cuba.

In the book's prologue, a group of notable Cuban Americans offer contemporary perspectives on Martí's legacy and his relevance in today's world.

The event is open to the community. Registration is encouraged.