Have you noticed how this statue seems to watch over the plaza? This is the Monumento a Joaquín Suárez. It stands as a tribute to a pivotal figure in Uruguay’s history.
The plaza itself was named by the ex Junta Económico Administrativa of Montevideo on October 15, 1919. It was inaugurated on January 14, 1933. The Monumento a Joaquín Suárez statue at its center honors the Uruguayan hero. The statue is a work of Juan Luis Blanes.
But who was Joaquín Suárez?
Born Joaquín Luis Miguel Suárez de Rondelo y Fernández in Canelones in 1781. He was a key figure in Uruguay’s independence. He even served as President of Uruguay.
Suárez’s father, Bernardo Suárez del Rondelo, was a respected man. He held the rank of Captain in the Spanish Army. Bernardo was also chosen as Alguacil Mayor.
In 1806, Joaquín married María Josefa Álamo. Family history says that Josefa embroidered the first national pavilion. Her husband hoisted it for the first time on January 1, 1829. Together, Joaquín and Josefa had eight children.
Suárez’s military career began before 1811. He was designated “Captain of Militias” by Artigas. Suárez participated in the Battle of Las Piedras. He served during the first siege of Montevideo.
During the 1820s, Suárez distanced himself from public life. He rejected positions offered by the Portuguese.
In 1825, Suárez was appointed Deputy to the Constituent Assembly of Florida. He voted in favor of the law of Union. Suárez continued his work in the House of Representatives. He proposed measures to promote agriculture. Suárez became governor of the Province. He focused on administrative organization.
Suárez also served as Provisional Governor. He decreed the cessation of foreign authorities. He created the national flag. The flag had nine horizontal blue stripes. It also had a sun in the upper corner. His wife might have made the first flag.
In later years, Suárez served as Minister of Government. He also served as Senator and Deputy. Andrés Lamas wrote of him. He said Rosas and Oribe called their enemies savages. But they made an exception for Don Joaquín Suárez.
Joaquín Suárez died in 1868. He was buried in the Cathedral of Montevideo. A law in 1881 ordered a statue to be made in his honor. The Monumento a Joaquín Suárez was erected in Plaza Independencia in 1896. Later, it was moved to this plaza. The plaza is located on the site of his former estate.
So, as you stand before the Monumento a Joaquín Suárez statue, remember the man. Remember his contributions. He was a soldier, politician, and a builder of Uruguay. The Monumento a Joaquín Suárez serves as a lasting reminder of his legacy.