Colombian History. An analysis of "Myths of Harmony" by Marixa Lasso
Soraya Anderson
2/20/12
Williams
HIST 251
Myths of Harmony: An Analysis
In 1795 to 1831, the country of Colombia entered an Age of Revolution that ultimately became an era of considerable political transformation and social transformation as well. This new era brought forth the participation of pardos who played a significant role in the construction of republican politics and different racial dynamics. Moreover, Marixa Lasso provides extensive knowledge on the illustrates the issue that lies in the foundation of Myths of Harmony: the fruitless incorporation of racial equality into Colombian republicanism and its misuse by the white aristocrats and elites to dismiss the demands of the non-whites (pardos, slaves, castas) for equality and independence. Nonetheless, Lasso argues that non-whites embraced the idea of republicanism because of its ideals of racial equality and disapproval of discrimination as a colonial
Before revolution and change could be accomplished, a transition took place in 1811 which shifted the importance of citizenship and rights for people of African descent to a main issue causing conflict among Spaniards and American patriots. Liberal Spanish deputies of the Spanish parliament opposed the granting of citizenship to the non-whites. In response, a political pamphlet written by a pardo "Political and Moral Reflections" expressed the disappointment of being excluded as a pardo; "When united in society we gave up our liberty...It was to be happy like citizens....for that reasons we bestowed our rights to the king...But what advantages did we get?" (53) He further more calls on the "fellow patriots" and basically argues that pardos should not be excluded from citizenship rights. Lasso clearly shows that many pardos were intelligent individuals who eloquently embraced the language of republican equality and were enthusiastic supporters of what could be a country of equality.