Racial Theory: José Martí, José Vasconcelos, and the Beliefs that Shaped Latin America

RM 215-218

This research compares and contrasts the racial theories of José Martí and José Vasconcelos, two prominent Latin American intellectuals. It analyzes the social conditions each experienced in their respective time period and location, as well as explains how such exposures led to their racial understanding and political agendas. The study primarily reveals how nationalistic movements developed due to their influential ideologies, and how both intellectuals influenced other prominent Latin American figures. Lastly, it sheds light on the elements of Martí’s and Vasconcelos’ ideals that remain extant.