To become a patriot and a real leader, journalist and poet José Martí devoted his life fighting for independence.
165 years ago this month, the Apostle of the Cuban Revolution was born in my birthplace of Habana and began to show a talent for writing and politics at an early age. He was and continues to be a real inspiration.
First exiled from Cuba in 1871, just like me, José Martí spent much of his life abroad. In 1895, he returned home to fight for independence and died on the battlefield.
The famous patriotic song "Guantanamera" is adapted from his poetry collection Versos Sencillos and gained greater popularity in 1963 when it was recorded by folk singer Pete Seeger. Guantanamera - sings young Pete Seeger https://youtu.be/h0gg3-xvMB0
Guantanamera - The Sandpipers https://youtu.be/Jm1anurhbeg
Joseito Fernandez Guantanamera HQ https://youtu.be/craeb9A7MQ8
Guajira Guantanamera - Cuarteto Caney 1938.wmv https://youtu.be/nZLlX_LMTz4
Later in life, I was approached and vetted by The GOP's Reagan Bush administration to help launch Martí Media. The plan was to embark on an electronic version of The Bay of Pigs by sending news and information content to Cuba via Radio and later on TV. Just like the failed previous invasion, our project has so far not been successful enough to inspire Cubans to stand up and make a difference towards returning democratic rule in Cuba.
His words have a message that should resonate with today's Republican leadership.
Liberty is the right of every man, to be honest, to think and to speak without hypocrisy.
Men are like the stars; some generate their own light while others reflect the brilliance they receive.
http://www.loc.gov/pictures/resource/det.4a27330/?co=det
Central Park Monuments - Jose Julian Marti : NYC Parks https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/central-park/monuments/982