Marti, José

1853-1895. Cuban poet, essayist and journalist, who became the symbol of Cuba's struggle for independence from Spain and who promoted better understanding among American nations. "No man has any special right because he belongs to any specific race; just by saying the word man, we have already said all the rights." Born in Havana, Marti spent most of his life outside of Cuba, including Spain, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela and the United States. He was killed in Cuba shortly after returning to the island to fight in its war of independence.