Carlos Manuel de Céspedes

to the Captain General, Governor of Cuba

A wealthy slaveowner, Carlos Manuel proclaimed his quest to liberate Cuba from the Spanish yoke and, as his first move, freed all of his slaves. As the war advanced, Carlos Manuel went on to become the first president of the government of Cuba in Arms. Two years into the war, his son Oscar -- a Liutenant Coronel in the Insurgent Army -- was apprehended by the Spanish forces. The letter that Céspedes wrote to Caballero de Rodas, Captain General of Cuba can be seen below. Oscar was finally executed.

 

Cuyajal Camp

June 2, 1870

His Excellency Captain General Caballero de Rodas

Excellency:

I am in receipt of the letter from Your Excellency where I am informed of the great calamity that my son Oscar has been taken prisoner by forces under your command. I also received your offer to save my son's life if I would leave the country through a site arranged by you. It is hard for me to think that an honorable soldier like yourself could allow such vindictiveness if I don't comply with your wishes, but if I don't, I want you to know that Oscar is not my only son: all the Cubans who are dying for our freedom are my sons as well.

May the Lord keep you for many years.

Carlos Manuel de Céspedes

Trannslated by Margarita García

RETURN