Juan Benigno Vela Hervas (Ambato, July 9, 1843 – Ambato, February 24, 1920) was an Ecuadorian politician, lawyer, journalist, and writer. A key figure in Ecuador’s liberal movement, he was known for his staunch opposition to the conservative regimes of Gabriel García Moreno and Ignacio de Veintemilla. Despite losing his sight and hearing later in life, Vela continued his fight for civil liberties through his work in journalism and politics, contributing to the drafting of Ecuador’s 1906 Constitution. He founded several influential newspapers, including El Combate and El Espectador, and remained a vocal advocate for education and democracy throughout his life.
Early Life and Education
Juan Benigno Vela Hervas was born on July 9, 1843, in Ambato, Ecuador. He was the son of Juan Pío Vela Endara, an agriculturist who passed away at a young age, and Mercedes Hervas Hidalgo. His maternal grandfather, José Joaquín Hervas López-Naranjo, was a prominent figure who fought for Ecuador’s independence. Vela demonstrated remarkable intelligence and a natural affinity for literature from a young age. After attending primary school in Ambato, he enrolled in the prestigious Vicente León School in Latacunga in 1859, where he formed friendships with notable figures such as Luis Felipe Borja and was taught by the renowned educator Simón Rodríguez, a former tutor of Simón Bolívar. Vela later pursued law at the University of Santo Tomás in Quito, obtaining his law degree in 1867.
Political Career and Journalism
Juan Benigno Vela was a fervent supporter of liberal ideals, heavily influenced by his godfather Pedro Fermín Cevallos and the prominent liberal intellectual Juan Montalvo. His career as a politician, lawyer, and journalist was marked by his opposition to the conservative governments of Gabriel García Moreno and General Ignacio de Veintemilla. Vela used his writing to criticize the authoritarian regimes, contributing to various newspapers, including El Combate, El Guante, El Espectador, and El Joven Literario. His political testament, published in El Espectador, is particularly famous for his symbolic condemnation of Ecuador’s corrupted Congress at the time.
Despite losing his vision at the age of 34, Vela continued his political struggle and became a vocal advocate for civil liberties and justice. His blindness and later deafness did not hinder his involvement in politics, and he gained a reputation for his strong convictions and eloquent rhetoric. He frequently faced imprisonment and exile due to his outspoken opposition to the regime, but his resolve never wavered.
Legislative Contributions
Throughout his political career, Vela held several public offices. He was appointed Inspector of Schools in Tungurahua in 1877, during which he dedicated his salary to provide educational materials for poor children. He also served as a Senator and contributed to the drafting of Ecuador’s 1906 Constitution, which is noted for its separation of church and state. Vela’s legislative work was focused on modernizing Ecuador’s institutions, including reforms in public education, civil registration, and the police code.
Jobs and posts
- Member of the Literary Society (Founded in the late 1860s) – Exact years of membership unknown, but he was an active member and co-founder during his early years of political involvement.
- School Inspector of the Province of Tungurahua (1877) – Appointed by Pedro Carbo, served as School Inspector for Tungurahua, using his salary to help poor schools.
- Rector of the Bolívar National School – The exact years unknown, but he served as Rector at some point in his career, likely after 1893.
- Member of the Cantonal Council of Ambato (1893) – Elected as councilor and later became the president of the Municipal Council.
- Member of the Patriotic Board of Tungurahua (1895) – Led the Patriotic Board during the liberal revolution against the conservative government.
- Civil and Military Chief of Tungurahua (1895) – Appointed during the liberal revolution after the victory of the liberals in Guayaquil.
- Governor of Tungurahua (1895–1896) – Briefly served as Governor of the province during Eloy Alfaro’s government.
- Deputy to the Constituent Assembly (1906) – Participated in drafting the liberal Constitution of 1906.
- Senator of Tungurahua (1898, 1912–1918) – Elected Deputy Senator in 1898 and served as a full Senator between 1912 and 1918.
Personal Life
Juan Benigno Vela married Mercedes Ortega and Fernández, with whom he had several children. His personal life was marked by the tragic loss of his eyesight and later his hearing, but these physical disabilities did not deter him from his public life or intellectual pursuits. His family remained a source of strength and support, particularly during his later years of increased isolation due to his health conditions.
Literary Works and Legacy
In addition to his political activism, Vela was a prolific writer and poet. His notable works include El Toro Gacho, Carta Abierta, and numerous poems written during his periods of imprisonment. Despite his disabilities, Vela continued to produce influential works that challenged the political status quo and inspired future generations of liberals in Ecuador.
Vela is remembered as one of the “Three Juans of Ambato,” along with Juan Montalvo and Juan León Mera, all of whom were instrumental in shaping Ecuador’s political and cultural landscape. In 2017, a museum was inaugurated in Ambato in his honor, showcasing his personal belongings, including letters, newspaper publications, and other memorabilia that highlight his contributions to Ecuadorian history.
The Three Juans of Ambato
Juan Benigno Vela’s (1843-1920) legacy merges with Juan Montalvo (1832-1889) and Juan León Mera (1832-1894), collectively recognized as the Three Juans of Ambato, whose combined influence significantly molded Ecuador’s cultural and political landscape, resonating across generations.
Juan Montalvo, born on April 13, 1832, was a vociferous champion of liberal ideals, whose incisive critiques of authoritarianism reverberated throughout Ecuador. His seminal works, including “Las Catilinarias” and “Siete Tratados,” penned in the tumultuous year of 1889, epitomized his unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and moral rectitude. Montalvo’s untimely demise on January 17, 1889, in Paris, marked the end of a literary era characterized by fervent dissent and unwavering conviction.
In stark contrast to Montalvo’s fiery rhetoric, Juan León Mera, born in 1832, emerged as a bastion of conservatism and religious fervor. His composition of the Ecuadorian national anthem in 1865, amidst the backdrop of political upheaval, solidified his place in the pantheon of Ecuadorian cultural icons. Mera’s magnum opus, the novel “Cumandá,” published in 1877, stands as a testament to his ability to interweave romanticism with nationalistic sentiment, shaping the literary contours of his era.
Completing the triumvirate, Juan Benigno Vela, born on July 9, 1843, navigated the turbulent currents of Ecuadorian politics with unwavering conviction and steadfast liberalism. From his advocacy for liberal principles to his disillusionment with the political realities of his time, Vela’s life mirrored the tumultuous trajectory of Ecuador’s nascent republic. His passing in relative obscurity, marked by the loss of sight and hearing, symbolized the denouement of an era characterized by intellectual ferment and political upheaval.
Juan Benigno Vela’s Role in Ecuador’s Magna Carta of 1906
Juan Benigno Vela played a pivotal role in crafting the Magna Carta of Ecuador in 1906, a historic document that ushered in numerous advancements for the nation and its people. This charter, often referred to as the Constitution of 1906, marked a profound moment in Ecuadorian history. It solidified the complete separation of church and state and championed the fundamental right to education, establishing a system of secular, public, and compulsory schooling at the primary level. Moreover, it barred religious leaders from holding legislative office, ensuring a clear divide between spiritual and political realms.
Furthermore, the Magna Carta extended official protection to indigenous communities, shielding them from exploitation and abuse. It also fostered the growth of arts and sciences, while bolstering the nation’s military strength. Embodying the values of democracy, the document enshrined the cherished right to freedom of speech, allowing individuals to express themselves without fear of persecution. However, it also held individuals accountable for defamation and slander, even when disseminated through the press.
Juan Benigno Vela’s tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to reform were instrumental in shaping the Magna Carta. His relentless efforts paved the way for the freedoms enjoyed by Ecuadorians today, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history and collective conscience.
Death and Posthumous Recognition
Juan Benigno Vela died on February 24, 1920, in Ambato at the age of 76, after contracting typhoid fever. He was buried at La Merced Cemetery in Ambato. His legacy as a defender of democracy and freedom continues to be honored, with streets, schools, and a neighborhood in Ambato named after him. The Juan Benigno Vela Museum serves as a permanent tribute to his life and work, preserving his role as a key figure in Ecuador’s liberal movement.
Recognitions and Accolades
- Municipal Honors: The Ambato City Council established annual awards in his name, recognizing contributions to education and civil rights.
- Museum: In 2017, the Juan Benigno Vela Museum was inaugurated, housing his personal effects and commemorating his contributions to Ecuadorian society.
Timeline of Juan Benigno Vela’s Life
- Timeline of Juan Benigno Vela’s Life
- 1843 (July 9) – Birth
- Juan Benigno Vela was born in Ambato, Ecuador.
- 1859 – Enrolled at Vicente León School
- Moved to Latacunga to study at the prestigious Vicente León School, where he formed key friendships and was influenced by teachers such as Simón Rodríguez.
- 1863 – University Education
- Entered the University of Santo Tomás in Quito to study law.
- 1867 (October 29) – Graduated with Law Degree
- Received his law degree, becoming a licensed lawyer at the age of 24.
- 1866 – Became Involved in Liberal Politics
- Started actively participating in the liberal cause, becoming a close associate of Pedro Carbo and Juan Montalvo.
- 1869 – Attempted Resistance Against Gabriel García Moreno
- Plotted against the dictator Gabriel García Moreno but did not succeed. Continued his fight against conservative governments through journalism.
- 1869 – Onset of Blindness
- At age 34, Vela began losing his vision, a condition that worsened over time until he became completely blind.
- 1875 – Death of Gabriel García Moreno
- Celebrated the assassination of García Moreno, marking the end of the dictator’s reign.
- 1877 – Appointed Inspector of Schools for Tungurahua
- Vela used his salary to buy school supplies for poor children, demonstrating his commitment to education.
- 1878 – Co-Founded “El Espectador” Newspaper
- Alongside Adriano Montalvo and Constantino Fernández, Vela launched this newspaper to continue his political fight.
- 1878 – Confronted Conservative Government
- Vela strongly opposed conservative policies, denouncing them in his political testament.
- 1883 – Exile to Colombia
- Forced into exile during the dictatorship of General Ignacio de Veintemilla. Returned after Veintemilla’s fall in 1883.
- 1884 – Founded “El Combate” Newspaper
- Vela founded this paper to fight against the conservative government of President José Plácido Caamaño and other conservative regimes.
- 1885 – Arrest and Imprisonment
- Imprisoned for political activism and opposition to the government. Wrote “A Mis Hijos” poem while incarcerated.
- 1890 – Founded “El Argos” Newspaper
- Continued to use journalism as a tool for political advocacy and criticism of the conservative government.
- 1891 – Death of His Wife
- Vela’s wife, Mercedes Ortega Fernández, died, leaving him with deep sorrow.
- 1893 – Elected as Ambato City Council Member
- Vela was elected councilor of Ambato and later became president of the municipal council.
- 1896 – Published “El Pelayo”
- Launched this paper in opposition to Eloy Alfaro’s government, particularly criticizing the execution of journalist Víctor León Vivar.
- 1898 – Death of His Daughter María and Elected Deputy Senator
- His daughter María died, and he was elected Deputy Senator for Tungurahua.
- 1901 – Supported the Candidacy of Leónidas Plaza
- Vela supported the presidential candidacy of Leónidas Plaza against Manuel Antonio Franco.
- 1906 – Drafted Ecuador’s New Constitution
- Appointed by President Eloy Alfaro to help draft the liberal Constitution of 1906, which established the separation of church and state.
- 1911 – Mediated Before Congress for Constitutional Order
- Vela mediated before Congress to prevent a constitutional crisis in 1911.
- 1912–1919 – Served as Senator
- Re-elected to the Ecuadorian Senate, serving during the governments of Leónidas Plaza and Alfredo Baquerizo and contributing to important reforms.
- 1920 (February 24) – Death
- Juan Benigno Vela died of typhoid fever in Ambato at the age of 76. He was buried at La Merced Cemetery.
- 2017 (July 7) – Inauguration of Juan Benigno Vela Museum
- A museum was opened in Ambato in his honor, preserving his legacy and showcasing his personal belongings and writings.
A short video biography of Juan Benigno Vela
Legacy
Poems
The following is a selection of poems by Juan Benigno Vela, one of Ecuador’s most influential writers and political figures of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I have chosen to translate these particular works as they showcase Vela’s unwavering commitment to his ideals, his deep love for his family, and his resilience in the face of adversity. Written during his imprisonment, these poems serve as a testament to Vela’s steadfast devotion to his loved ones, his country, and his principles.
POEM 1
RITUALS FROM THE DUNGEON, TO MERCEDES.
Guayaquil Artístico,
Issue No. 66, April 30, 1903.
Translated into English by Richard Gabela on 4/9/2024
Blind I am, yet in bliss
my soul dwells in its agony,
for the radiant light
embodies life, future, and sustenance
anxiously awaited in the darkness.
Light of my eyes, cherished
partner in my destiny;
a perpetually burning lamp
guiding the way
through life’s voyage.
Absent your love, Mercedes, observe,
life would transform into a loathsome burden,
harsh and unforgiving.
Perhaps, unjustly, I might blame
the Divine Providence.
When a storm of misfortune envelops
and shakes my heart, and vehemently
agitates the enduring suffering,
of my tempestuous existence.
Ah! Mercedes, your pure love
and the grandeur of your love,
like an enchanting spell, lift me up,
and I imbibe serenity in big draughts.
GRITOS DEL CALABOZO A MERCEDES.
Guayaquil Artístico,
Guayaquil, Nº 66, abril 30, 1903.
Ciego soy, pero dichoso
vive mi alma en su tormento,
porque la luz esplendorosa
vida, porvenir y aliento
en la tubería debe ansiosa.
Luz de mis ojos, querida
compañera en mi destino;
lámpara siempre encendida
para alumbrar el camino
en el viaje de la vida.
Sin tu amor, Mercedes mira,
una carga la existencia
odiosa, cruel me sería.
Y acaso a la Providencia
sin razón yo acusaría.
Cuando la rodea tormenta
del infortunio conmueve
mi corazón, y violenta
el largo sufrir remueve,
de mi vida turbulenta.
!Ah! Mercedes, tu amor puro
y la grandeza de tu alma,
como un mágico conjuro
me levantan, y la calma
a grandes tragos apuro.
!Ah! Mercedes, tu amor puro
y la grandeza de tu alma,
como un mágico conjuro
me levantan, y la calma
a grandes tragos apuro.
POEM 2
ALWAYS IN MY MIND, TO MY CHILDREN
Quito Prison, December 21, 1884
Translated into English by Richard Gabela on 4/9/2024
My mind always dwells with you,
my heart consistently beats for you,
God and you alleviate my suffering,
you, the children of my soul.
My life is devoted to you, for you I endure;
I aim to bequeath you an unblemished name,
for capricious fate has stingily
denied me other riches.
I hope that time, and the stern annals of history,
should they ever mention my obscure name,
oh, let them never claim that any adversity
rendered me unworthy.
Let them recount that my soul, in noble strife,
fought always for the beloved people’s cause,
seeking enlightenment, freedom, advancement,
a beacon for the spirit.
Let them declare that my disdain for tyrants was
greater in my heart than any other passion;
that I valiantly opposed tyranny,
never yielding to cowardice.
Let them assert that for my beloved Homeland,
I scornfully spurned petty favors;
that even in poverty, I maintained
my nobility and pride.
When you speak my name,
children of my soul, do so with pride;
I have been a victim, yet not deemed guilty,
merely a miserable blind man.
SIEMPRE EN MI MENTE A MIS HIJOS
Cárcel de Quito, 21 de diciembre de 1884
Siempre mi mente con vosotros vive,
siempre mi pecho por vosotros late,
Dios y vosotros consoláis mis penas,
hijos de mi alma.
Vuestra es mi vida, por vosotros sufro;
quiero mi nombre transmitiros limpio,
ya que otros bienes, caprichosa suerte
niégame avara.
Quiero que el tiempo, la severa historia
si es que se ocupan de mi oscuro nombre,
oh! nunca digan que revés alguno
hízome indigno.
Digan que mi alma en generosa lucha,
siempre en defensa del amado pueblo,
luz demandaba, libertad, progreso,
luz para el alma.
Digan que el odio a los tiranos pudo
más en mi pecho que pasión alguna;
que al despotismo combatí animoso,
nunca cobarde.
Digan que siempre por la Patria mía
ruines favores rechacé indignado;
que en la pobreza conservarme pude
noble y altivo.
Cuando vosotros repitáis mi nombre,
hijos de mi alma, con orgullo sea;
víctima he sido, pero no culpado
mísero ciego.
POEM 3
STRICKEN ILL IN JAIL
Dec. 30, 1884
Translated into English by Richard Gabela on 4/9/2024
I yearn for life, for beyond death lies something noble,
A calling to uplift, a magnanimous purpose;
Destined are we to leave our mark—
Heroic, transcendent, magnificent.
To perish in pursuit of truth’s resplendent victory
Is the dream that infuses my existence with purpose,
A perpetual aspiration that consumes me.
Indeed, to die thus, leaving nothing behind,
Neither a light, nor an effort, nor a memory,
Devoid of that which could elevate me from oblivion
And enshrine me within the annals of history;
Oh! To fulfill the destinies ordained by God’s profound mysteries
Is not mere existence; it is life’s true essence;
To live is to embrace progress,
To challenge oppression and champion righteousness.
What care have I for exile and imprisonment,
For poverty, disillusionment, and torment,
If through these trials my soul finds refinement,
And my intellect gains liberation, pristine and pure?
Struggle, sacrifice, and dedication—
These are the demands our nation places upon us,
To prevail in the darkness where truth’s light
Is banned, its radiance concealed.
I shall join the fray: my modest contributions
Dedicated to the pursuit of a glorious ideal;
As long as Freedom reigns, I shall greet death with joy…
Blessed be the peacefulness that follows from the grave.
ENFERMO EN LA CARCEL
Dic. 30 1884
Quiero vivir, porque a la tumba hay algo
De noble que elevar, de generoso;
Hay que dejar detrás alguna huella
De heroico, de sublime, de grandioso.
Morir por la verdad y por el triunfo
De una idea brillante y redentora,
Es un sueño que halaga mi existencia,
La eterna aspiración que me devora.
Pero morir así sin dejar nada,
Ni una luz, ni un esfuerzo, una memoria,
Algo que me levante del olvido
Y me traslade al libro de la historia;
Oh! No es morir cumpliendo los destinos
Que Dios en sus arcanos nos confía:
Vivir, es combatir por el progreso,
Vivir, es combatir la tiranía.
¿Qué me importan destierros y prisiones,
Pobreza, desengaños y tormentos,
Si mi alma es esa escuela se acrisola
Y es más libre, más puro el pensamiento?
Luchas, abnegación y sacrificios,
De nosotros la Patria necesita,
Para triunfar aquí donde no irradia
La luz de la verdad que está proscrita.
Yo lucharé: mis débiles esfuerzos
Son del partido de una gran idea;
Triunfe la Libertad, muérame entonces…
Del sepulcro la paz, bendita sea.
POEM 4
ALPHABET FOR CRISTOBAL
The Panopticon, October 1887.
Translated into English by Richard Gabela on 4/9/2024
Love your mother, my son,
with a love so profound,
that she may be in this world
your devotion, your passion.
Seek your daily sustenance
with the sweat that dignifies;
he who works is uplifted
and spared from infamy.
Correct diligently
and temper your passions;
practice virtuous deeds,
let no shadow linger on your conscience.
Above all, bless His name
day and night;
God is light, wisdom,
all goodness for humanity.
In adversity, show courage
and nobility,
for if you bow your head
dishonor will befall you.
Ask for no favors from any government,
my beloved son;
he who begs is already compromised
and his disgrace will be lasting.
May honesty always guide
your youth,
along with modesty and purity
and respect for virtue.
Let the tenderest compassion
reside in your heart;
and demonstrate your commitment to truth
in every circumstance.
Embrace lofty ideals,
those that elevate your mind;
and never bow your head
to trivial notions.
Let infamy and vice
find no refuge in your heart,
be just, and go forth calmly
in your sacrifices.
If you possess enlightenment, proudly
illuminate the people with it,
and you will see your brother emerge
triumphant from the shadows.
Weep with the unfortunate,
be compassionate and merciful;
and extend your hand discreetly
to those in need.
The greater your independence
and labor provide,
the clearer the conscience
of your soul becomes.
Never cease for a moment
to enlighten your understanding;
study as if parched,
with unyielding diligence.
From an early age, observe
your faults; through this practice
they will find remedy,
which later will prove futile.
Strive to preserve
your honor untarnished;
he who once disgraces himself
will not rise again.
He who, with Roman fortitude,
rejects oppression,
is noble; while those who succumb
rightly inspire revulsion.
Respect the law, until
despotism prevails no longer;
if it emerges, discern for yourself
what is truly righteous.
Be liberal, as I urge,
but always honest and sincere;
in politics, vacillation
reveals smallness of character.
Do not forsake your work and freedom
for positions of power;
do not emulate those who revel
in frivolity.
Speak the truth even when
faced with seemingly insurmountable adversity;
the just man fears
only the stain of wrongdoing.
As one who knows the world
through bitter experience, my son,
I impart these words of wisdom
to ensure your happiness in life.
ABECEDARIO PARA CRISTOBAL
El Panóptico, Octubre de 1887.
Ama a tu madre, hijo mío,
con un amor tan profundo,
que ella sea en este mundo
tu culto, tu desvarío.
Búscate el diario sustento
con el sudor que ennoblece;
quien trabaja se enaltece
y de infamias se halla exento.
Corrige con diligencia
y modera tus pasiones;
practica buenas acciones,
no haya sombra en tu conciencia.
Dios ante todo, su nombre
bendícelo noche y día;
Dios es luz, sabiduría,
todo bondad para el hombre.
En las desgracias, valor
has de mostrar y grandeza,
pues si inclinas la cabeza
te va encima el deshonor.
Favor a ningún gobierno
pedirás, hijo querido;
el que pide es ya un vendido
y su baldón será eterno.
Guía de tu juventud
sean siempre la franqueza,
la modestia y la pureza
y el respeto a la virtud.
Habite en tu corazón
la más tierna caridad;
y tu amor a la verdad
pruébalo en toda ocasión.
Ideas, las encumbradas,
Las que engrandezcan tu mente;
y nunca inclines tu frente
ante ideas apocadas.
Jamás en tu pecho asilo
tengan la infamia y el vicio,
sé justo, y al sacrificio
por serlo, vete tranquilo.
Luz, si la tienes, ufano
al pueblo con ella alumbra
y verás de la penumbra
surgir triunfante a tu hermano.
Llora con el desgraciado,
sé compasivo y clemente;
y tu mano ocultamente
extiende al necesitado.
Mientras más independencia
y trabajo te depara,
conocerás que se aclara
el cristal de tu conciencia.
No descanses un instante
de ilustrar tu entendimiento;
estudia como un sediento,
con agonía incesante.
Observa desde temprano
tus faltas; por este medio
tendrán ellas su remedio,
que más tarde será en vano.
Pon tu monta en conservar
ilesa, límpida tu honra;
el que una vez se deshonra,
no se vuelve a levantar.
Quien con romana entereza
no rechaza la opresión,
es traidor; y con razón
asco inspira su bajeza.
Respeta la ley, en tanto
que no impere el despotismo;
si éste surge, ve tú mismo
lo que en el caso es más santo.
Sé liberal, yo te mando,
pero honrado y muy genuino;
en política es mezquino
quien se presenta oscilando.
Tu trabajo y libertad
no dejes por los empleos;
no imites a esos pigmeos
que se hartan de liviandad.
Verdad di aunque infinito
parezca el mal que te viene;
el varón justo no tiene
más que temor al delito.
Yo que por dura experiencia
conozco el mundo, hijo mío,
estos consejos te envío
que harán feliz tu existencia.
References
- Wikipedia, “Juan Benigno Vela.” Retrieved on October 14, 2024.
Click to view - Enciclopedia del Ecuador, “Juan Benigno Vela.” Retrieved on October 14, 2024.
Click to view - Rodolfo Pérez Pimentel, “Vela Hervas Juan Benigno.” Retrieved on October 14, 2024.
Click to view - La Hora, “Museo en honor a Juan Benigno Vela fue inaugurado.” Retrieved on October 14, 2024.
Click to view