MATIAS RAMON MELLA

"He was born on February 25, 1816, and the first years of his precious youth were spent in the despotic shadow of Haitian domination. That soul, chosen by God for great plans that in His holy judgment were being prepared, knew how to respond to his destiny, always keeping alive in the sanctuary of his heart the noble virtue of patriotism. In imitation of Hannibal, when his father raised him to the holy altar and he swore eternal enmity toward the Romans, he too swore implacable hatred to the oppressors. Hence, We could always be found among the sons of the people in their diverse activities, and at the side of his companions to punish the grievances and annoyances that they received at the hands of the oppressors. From then on, he sought the ties of friendship that joined all those who could contribute to the idea of separatism in any way. And in conclusion, he risked his life to further the cause by performing the difficult and important tasks assigned to him by his party."

Father Dr. Adolfo Alejandro Nouel. "ORATION," Cathedral of Santo Domingo, February 27, 1891, during the Apotheosis of General Matias Ramon Mella.

Back