Latin American Leaders
Bolivar and Morelos Take a Stand Against Spanish Leadership
Jose Maria Morelos (Born in Mexico, Sep. 30, 1765- Dec. 22, 1815)
Today, to honor Morelos, the city of Morelia is named in his honor, as well as the state of Morelos. He has been honored on the peso note since 1997, and was on the peso coin for some time, as well as communication centers, stadiums, and train stations all being named after him for his accomplishments.
Bolivar
Globally Known
Morelos
Simon Bolivar (Born in Venezuela, July 24, 1783- Dec. 17, 1830)
Bolivar was never afraid of speaking his mind, even to the national congress of Venezuela. Although not even a delegate, he was the man that encouraged the congress to write a Constitution and be liberated from the Spanish in his first public speech. He was once forced to flee from Venezuela, then constructed a new army, defeated the Spanish, and freed Venezuela. He was the president of Colombia, president of Bolivia (a new country created by Bolivar), dictator of Peru, and created Bolivia's first constitution. He controlled most of South America, and successfully liberated these countries from Spain.
The modern countries of Venezuela and Bolivia and their currencies are named after Bolivar's efforts. Statues in his honor can be found across the world in various capital cities like Washington D.C., London, and more.