Mantilla, Manuel Florencio (1853–1909)

Manuel Florencio Mantilla (July 2, 1853–October 17, 1909) was one of the most notable figures in the intellectual and political life of the Argentine province of Corrientes during the second half of the nineteenth century. He played an active role in government and parliament and is also known for his work as a historian and publicist. Mantilla pursued studies in jurisprudence at the University of Buenos Aires and later, in Corrientes, held the positions of government attorney and minister of government. In 1879 Mantilla was elected to the National Chamber of Deputies, a position to which he won reelection in 1894. In 1898 he was elected a national senator; he was reelected in 1904.

Mantilla's work in the field of history has particular significance. His principle writings include Estudios biográficos sobre patriotas correntinos (1884; Biography Studies of Correntinos Patriots), Bibliografía Periodística de la Provincia de Corrientes (1887; Bibliography of Corrientes State), and Narraciones Históricas (1888; Historical Narratives).

His most important work, however, is undoubtedly the Crónica Histórica de la Provincia de Corrientes (1928–1929; Historical Chronicle of Corrientes State). This work, published posthumously and apparently written during the last year of his life, is a synthesis of the history of the province, practically from the foundation of the city of Corrientes to the second half of the nineteenth century.

See alsoCorrientes .

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Carbia, Rómulo. Historia crítica de la Historiografía argentina. Buenos Aires: Imprenta y Casa Editoria Coni, 1940.

Scenna, Miguel Angel. Los que escribieron nuestra historia, Buenos Aires: Ediciones La Bastilla, 1976

                                       Pablo Buchbinder