José Martí was born on January 28, 1853, Havana, Cuba and died on May 19, 1895, Dos Ríos, Cuba.
From an early age, he showed a talent for writing and revolutionary politics. He was a poet, essayist, journalist, translator, and publisher.
However, he’s mostly known to be a patriot, revolutionist and Cuba’s national hero. Considered founder of the literary movement called modernism he continues to be an important figure in Latin American literature.
Famous work and essays:
- Guantanamera is a patriotic song that features some of his verses from Versos sencillos.
- Children’s magazine La edad de oro.
- Nuestra América
- Ismaelillo
- Versos libres
Children’s book:
Conoce a José Martí / Get to Know José Martí (Spanish Edition) (Personajes del mundo hispánico/ Historical Figures of the Hispanic World) by Antonio Orlando Rodríguez (Author), Pablo de Bella (Illustrator)
Martí’s Song for Freedom / Martí y sus versos por la libertad (English and Spanish Edition) by Emma Otheguy

Craft Activity:
DIY Activity: Cuban Pom-Pom Flag
Additional resources:
Martí’s Song for Freedom Teacher Guide
Supporting Materials for Martí’s Song for Freedom
José Martí Poems and Letters Lesson Plans
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