Martín Miguel de Güemes (1785 – 1821)
THE MYTH
The young general carved out a niche for himself as popular hero with typical attributes such as charismatic personality, noble and arrogant character, consummate horsemanship, generosity and righteousness. In addition to this, the loving husband, father of the poor and scourge of the rich was worshipped by his loyal gauchos, but violently and treacherously murdered in the prime of life.
He inspired both strict adherence and passionate hatred amongst his contemporaries. However, truth is that he was a lucid leader, brilliant strategist, a man of strong convictions and commitment, a paradigm of tenacity and patriotism.
He lives in the memory of the people and is the proud symbol of Salta’s character.
