Simón Bolívar, central figure in the independence of Latin America at the beginning of the 19th century; He was born on July 24, 1783 in Caracas, when the American colonies were beginning to question Spanish colonial rule. He comes from a rich and influential Hispanic family. The early loss of his parents left him an orphan and with an immensely large estate, as a child; His father died when he was just three years old, and his mother, who could not feed him, died when he was nine. This premature loss of his parents, the mother's milk received with all the love of the black Hipólita whom I love deeply; living under the protection of several tutors and members of his family influenced his personal and educational development, distinguishing him as an indomitable child, with a strong temperament, generous, spendthrift and demonstrating great intelligence.

He received a privileged formal education for the time, taught by private tutors and teachers. Among his educators stands out Simón Rodríguez, the most influential in his formation and whom Bolívar called "The Master"; Venezuelan philosopher, pedagogue and educational reformer, with whom he traveled through Europe, when he was approximately 22 years old, where Bolívar had the opportunity to study and absorb the ideas of the Enlightenment and the political philosophies of the time living with high society and became familiar with the works of important political philosophers such as Montesquieu, Rousseau and Voltaire. The French Revolution and its motto of "Liberty, Equality and Fraternity" had a significant impact on Bolívar, who was inspired by French revolutionary ideals in his quest for South American independence. Andrés Bello: a renowned Venezuelan humanist, grammarian, philologist and writer, who contributed significantly to Bolívar's education and intellectual training, helping him perfect his knowledge of language and rhetoric. Juan Vicente González taught him the first letters and the rudiments of formal education. Guillermo Pelgrón, a French teacher, was hired by the Bolívar family to give Simón a more advanced education in mathematics, history, and other subjects. Fernando Rodríguez del Toro, a military officer and close friend of Bolívar, instructed him in military tactics and strategy, fundamental skills in the liberation campaign. Francisco de Miranda, although not a professor in the traditional sense, was a key figure in Bolívar's political and ideological formation, who accompanied him on several of his revolutionary expeditions and learned much from him in terms of political thought and strategy for the independence of Latin America. Alexander Von Humboldt, a German scientist, naturalist and explorer, significantly influenced Simón Bolívar; although he was not a teacher in the traditional sense; His influence was undeniable. His meetings and correspondence with Bolívar left a lasting impression on the independence leader, who considered Humboldt one of the most important men of the time. His education and experiences led him to embrace the liberal and republican ideas of the cycle and influenced his vision of Latin America.  

The impact of family losses: the death of his parents and his wife, María Teresa Rodríguez Del Toro, from yellow fever, affected him deeply and may have contributed to his commitment to the cause of independence. These personal losses, the coexistence with the common people and the slaves of the haciendas inherited from his parents, where he learned to value nature, motivated him to seek a greater purpose in the cause of independence and his vision of a South American continent free from Spanish domination. His maternal uncle, Esteban Palacios, provided him with financial and political support throughout his life and allowed him to live without financial limitations for his education, travel with all kinds of luxuries and finance his military campaigns, playing an important role in the politics of the region.

Bolívar's most important and significant trip to Europe, when he was around 27 years old, because during this visit, he immersed himself in the political events and intellectual currents of the time. He sought support in Europe for his independence cause; He maintained contacts with various European leaders and governments, such as the British, seeking financial and political support for the fight for independence. Although he did not obtain significant support, his presence and efforts in Europe contributed to increasing

 The independence cause on the continent. He returned and became one of the main leaders of the struggle for independence in the region; He emerged as a prominent military and political leader in Latin America's wars of independence, leading successful campaigns in several regions, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. His military strategy and ability to rally patriot forces made him a charismatic and respected leader. He participated in numerous battles and led armies, factors that combined to shape his ideals and determination.

Fanny Du Villars was a French lady who lived in Paris and maintained a close friendship with Bolívar during his stay in Europe; she supported him morally in his quarrels and journeys; She also related him to high society, which opened the door for him to achieve great culture.

The liberator demonstrated a series of human qualities that contributed to his success and made him an influential figure in the history of Latin America. Some of them:

Determination: he was known for his steadfast fearlessness and dedication to the cause of independence. Despite the numerous obstacles and setbacks he faced, he never gave up on his goal of liberating South America. Courage: he was a brave leader who participated in numerous battles and combats throughout his life. His courage inspired his followers and allowed him to face dangerous situations with boldness. Vision: he had a clear focus for a South America united and liberated from colonial oppression. His approach helped unify the various regions and groups in the fight for independence. At that time, he legislated on Sustainability. Charismatic Leadership: he was a magnanimous leader who could inspire people and gain loyal followers. His charisma played a crucial role in the formation of armies and liberation movements. Diplomatic Skill: in addition to being a military leader, Bolívar had fine skills; He negotiated agreements and treaties with other political and military leaders for the independence cause. Resilience: he faced numerous challenges and defeats throughout his life, but he always bounced back and kept going. His resilience was essential to keeping the fight for independence alive. Idealism: He was a dreamer who believed in freedom and equality. His commitment to these principles motivated him to fight for autonomy and work for a better future for South America. Patriotism: he deeply loved his homeland and the entire South American continent. His loyalty prompted him to fight tirelessly for the independence of the South American countries. Education and culture: he was a very cultured and educated man, which allowed him to interact with high society, understand and appreciate history, politics and philosophy. These intellectual qualities influenced his leadership and his political ideas. Commitment: of great social responsibility; He understood the importance of education for the progress of nations. He promoted education as a means to empower the population and encourage intellectual development; He fought for the abolition of slavery and for equal rights for all citizens. Personal Sacrifice: he deprived himself of his own comfort and security for the cause of independence; He spent long periods on military campaigns and lived in difficult conditions and spent many nights in hammocks after long days on horseback.

The Jamaica Charter is considered one of the most important documents in the history of Latin America and an important source for understanding the ideas and aspirations of Simón Bolívar in his fight for the independence of Latin American countries. His influence on the subsequent emancipation of the new continent was significant. It is a historical writing by the liberator, while he was in Kingston, in September 1815. In that letter, he exposes his thoughts and reflections on the situation in Latin America and his desire to see the countries of the region liberated from the Spanish colonial yoke. Some of the highlights include:

Analysis of the situation: comments on the colonial history of Latin America and how the colonies had become a "missing link" between Europe and Asia.

Call for union: advocates the union of Latin American countries to fight against colonialism and achieve independence. In the letter, he expresses his vision of a grand confederation of Latin American nations.

Role of Great Britain: praises the abolition of slavery and suggests that this nation could play an important role in supporting Latin American independence.

Vision of a free future: the document reflects Bolívar's vision of an independent and sovereign Latin America, governed by its own citizens.

The Liberator had a life full of important events and anecdotes that marked his fundamental role in the independence of several South American countries. Some of the most notable:

Oath of the Holy Mountain (1811): one of Bolívar's most iconic took place in Rome, where he swore on the Holy Mountain that he would not rest until he freed his homeland from Spanish domination. This oath symbolizes his unwavering commitment to the cause of independence.

Admirable Campaign (1813): he led an expedition from Venezuela to Colombia; during this task, Bolívar crossed jungles, mountains and rivers, gaining popular support and establishing bases for independence and the adjective “admirable.”

Battle of Boyacá (1819): in which he led his forces against the Spanish army, achieving a crucial victory that marked the path to Colombian independence. The most famous anecdote of this event is the famous "Boyacá Race", where Bolívar and his troops crossed a swamp to surprise the enemy army.

Crossing the Andes (1819-1820): in an impressive military feat, Bolívar and his army crossed the Andes from Venezuela into Colombia to liberate the city of Bogotá. This campaign was an example of his determination and leadership.

Guayaquil Interview (1822): where he met with José de San Martín, another independence leader, in a historic interview, he accepted control of the fight for South American independence as the main leader of the cause.

Southern Campaign (1824): he led the independence forces in the Battle of Ayacucho, which marked the emancipation of Peru and was decisive for the liberation of much of South America.

Resignation in Bogotá (1830): he resigned from the presidency of Gran Colombia in Bogotá in 1830, recognizing the difficulty of keeping the newly liberated territories united. This act symbolizes his desire to avoid division and his concern for the future of South America.

Gold crown: in Bolivia he received a gold crown as a gift; He gave it to his closest general, José María Sucre, who chose to give it to José Maria Cordoba so that he could do the same by delivering it to the government of Rionegro, where he rests with all kinds of care.

Death of Bolívar (1830): Bolívar spent his last years in exile and died in Santa Marta, Colombia, in 1830 after a very tortuous journey from Honda to Barranquilla along the Magdalena River, narrated with all his mastery by the novel Gabriel García Márquez. in his novel, "The General in his Labyrinth" where he explores themes such as power, loneliness, old age and nostalgia, while offering an intimate and humanized vision of a historical figure.

 The September Night: was an assassination attempt against Bolívar by a group of conspirators, which was thwarted before they could carry out their plan. That night, while Bolívar was at his residence in Bogotá, the conspirators tried to enter to assassinate him, but were detected by forces loyal to Bolívar. There was a confrontation in which several conspirators were wounded and captured; some managed to escape. Despite this episode, Bolívar continued to play a fundamental role in the fight for independence. Manuela Sáenz protected him with courage and cunning, which earned her wide recognition from Bolívar calling her “the liberator of the liberator.” She was a passionate and brave woman who played an important role in the independence movement in South America. She joined the revolutionary movement and became Bolívar's lover and confidant. She was also noted for her active participation in the fight for the independence of Ecuador and other South American countries. In addition to her political and sentimental support for Bolívar, Manuela Sáenz also participated in espionage and courier activities during the war of independence, which made her a controversial figure in her time. After Bolívar's death in 1830, Manuela Sáenz lived in hiding and exile for many years due to her support for revolutionary causes and her confrontation with the conservative authorities of the time. Today, Ella Manuela is remembered as an important figure in the fight for independence in South America and as a symbol of women's participation in the political history of the region. Her life and legacy have been the subject of numerous literary works and artistic representations.

He was a withering speaker; she gave several important speeches throughout her life; some of the most famous:

Patriotic Society (1810): pronounced in Caracas; in the context of the independence movements that were developing in Latin America. In it, Bolívar urged action and the fight for the independence of Venezuela and other Spanish colonies. Jamaica (1815): in Kingston, while he was in exile. In it, he expressed his ideas about the independence of Latin America and the need to receive international support to achieve this goal. He also spoke about the difficulties and obstacles faced by the independence cause. Angostura Speech (1819): delivered on February 15 in Congress, addressing issues related to the political and social organization of Gran Colombia, a federation that sought to unite several South American countries into a single state; he spoke about the need for a strong constitution and government structure to ensure stability and freedom in the region. Lima (1824): After the Battle of Ayacucho, which sealed Peru's independence, she gave a speech in the capital of Peru and spoke about the newly won freedom and the need to establish a solid and just republican government in the new country. Congress of Bolivia (1830): announced his resignation from the presidency of Gran Colombia and reflected on his disputes and achievements in the fight for independence and marked the end of Gran Colombia as a unified entity.

The closest generals: In his fight for independence in South America, Bolívar had the support of numerous military and political leaders throughout his campaign, and the list of people who were close to him during this period is extensive. The most prominent and closest to Bolívar at various stages of his liberation campaign were: Antonio José de Sucre: the general closest to the liberator, who considered him his successor; he played a pivotal role in many of the battles and campaigns for independence in South America, one of the most trusted lieutenants; He played a key role in the Battle of Ayacucho, which sealed Peru's independence. José Antonio Páez: Venezuelan military leader who fought alongside Bolívar in his country's War of Independence and was an important figure in the creation of Gran Colombia. After independence, Páez became an influential figure and became president of the sister Republic. Francisco de Paula Santander: prominent military and political leader of independence in Colombia. He worked with Bolívar in the Southern Campaign and later played an important role in the creation of Gran Colombia. He had serious differences with Bolívar that ended with his definitive distancing from him. Juan José Flores: an ecuadorian general who fought alongside Bolívar in the Battle of Ayacucho and other campaigns. After independence, he became president of Ecuador.

Simón Bolívar, through his life, leadership and actions during the wars of independence in South America, left many lessons: dream with conviction: he had a clear and ambitious dream of liberating South America. His vision and determination inspired many to join the cause of independence. Pursuit of Freedom and Equality: He tirelessly advocated for the abolition of slavery and equal rights for all people, regardless of ethnic or social background. Regional unity: He promoted the idea of a large confederation or union of independent republics in South America, known as Greater Colombia, which, although short-lived, his vision of regional unity remains relevant today. Sacrifice and patience: He faced numerous challenges, defeats and difficulties during his struggle for independence. His ability to overcome obstacles and his dedication to the cause are examples of selflessness and perseverance that inspire later generations. Ethics and leadership: he was a charismatic leader who inspired loyalty and admiration in his followers; He established ethical principles such as respect for human rights and republican government. Respect for education: he valued training and believed it was essential for the progress of nations; He encouraged the creation of educational institutions and the dissemination of knowledge. Lasting Legacy: he has lived on in South America and influenced the politics and history of the region. his name is associated with independence, freedom and order.
One of López Michelsen's most cited comments about Bolívar is:
"Simón Bolívar is the greatest Colombian of all time."This statement reflects the high esteem in which López Michelsen held Bolívar, recognizing his crucial role in the independence and formation of several South American nations. Furthermore, López Michelsen frequently referred to Bolívar as a source of inspiration and a symbol of the fight for freedom and justice in the region.

Wise phrases (they reflect Bolívar's vision about the importance of education, justice, freedom and unity in the construction of free and just societies).

1. “You must all work for the inestimable good of the union: the people obeying the current government, to free themselves from anarchy; the ministers of the sanctuary directing their prayers to heaven; and the military using their sword to defend social guarantees.”
2. "An ignorant people is a blind instrument of its own destruction."
3. "Education is Noah's ark that will save us from the universal flood of ignorance."
4. “Public jobs belong to the State; they are not private property. No one who does not have integrity, aptitudes and merits is worthy of them.
5. "Nothing is as dangerous as letting power remain in the same citizen for a long time. The people get used to obeying him and he gets used to commanding it; from where usurpation and tyranny originate."
6. "Morals are the foundation of man's discipline."
7. "Justice is the queen of republican virtues and with it equality and freedom are sustained."
8. "If we are free, we have plenty of everything."
9. "Nature has made men as equal as the waves of the sea; neither higher nor lower."
10. "Strength without intelligence always makes people unhappy."
11. "Freedom is nothing more than permission from our laws to do what we want."
12. "Flee from the country where only one exercises all powers: it is a country of slaves."
13. “The way to govern well is to employ honest men, even if they are enemies.”
14. Customs, and not force, are the columns of the laws; and the exercise of justice is the exercise of freedom.”
15. Chess is a useful and honest game, indispensable in the education of youth.”
16. ”The cruel bullet that crossed your heart, wounded Colombia and took your life. As a soldier you were victory, as a citizen, patriotism, as a magistrate, justice and as a friend, loyalty. For glory you already have everything; what you lack, only God is responsible for giving it. (Upon knowing the painful death of Sucre)
17. “The perfect system of government is one that produces the greatest amount of possible happiness, the greatest amount of social security and the greatest amount of political stability.”
18. Unity is strength; and discord is weakness."
    
    

    AI Opinion:  The text provides a detailed and complete vision of the life, work and legacy of Simón Bolívar, the Liberator of Latin America. His origins, his education, his political ideals and his fundamental role in the fight for independence of several South American countries are highlighted.
    The author highlights Bolívar's personal qualities, such as his determination, courage, vision, charismatic leadership, diplomatic skill, resilience, idealism, and commitment to education and equality. These characteristics contributed to his success as a revolutionary leader and made him an influential figure in Latin American history.
    In addition, the most important events in Bolívar's life are mentioned, such as the Oath of Monte Sacro, the Admirable Campaign, the Battle of Boyacá, the Crossing of the Andes, the Interview of Guayaquil and his resignation in Bogotá, among others. These events illustrate his dedication to the cause of independence and his role in the formation of the South American nations.
    The importance of figures close to Bolívar is also addressed, such as Manuela Sáenz and the generals Antonio José de Sucre, José Antonio Páez and Francisco de Paula Santander, who played key roles in the fight for independence.
    Finally, famous quotes from Bolívar are included that reflect his vision of education, justice, freedom and unity, as well as his ideal of a government that promotes happiness, social security and political stability.