Walter Rela

Walter Rela[9†]

Walter Rela (1922-2016) was a distinguished Uruguayan writer, historian, and biographer, known for his extensive research and over 100 works on Uruguayan cultural figures. As the Director of Research and Advanced Studies in American Literature at the Catholic University of Uruguay, he significantly influenced Latin American literature. His teaching career included positions in Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and the United States. Rela's contributions have profoundly impacted the understanding and appreciation of Latin American literature[1†][2†].

Early Years and Education

Walter Rela was born on May 31, 1922[2†]. Unfortunately, detailed information about his early life, family background, and primary education is not readily available. However, it is known that he developed a passion for literature and history at an early age, which guided his educational and professional choices[2†].

Rela pursued advanced studies in American Literature and became the Director of Research and Advanced Studies in American Literature at the Catholic University of Uruguay[2†]. His academic journey also led him to teach Latin American Literature in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil[2†]. He further expanded his academic influence by serving as a Visiting Professor at several universities in the United States[2†].

His early education and subsequent academic pursuits played a significant role in shaping his career as a respected historian, professor, and writer. His dedication to literature and history has left a lasting impact on the academic community and beyond[2†].

Career Development and Achievements

Walter Rela’s career was marked by a deep commitment to the study and dissemination of Latin American literature. He held the position of Director of Research and Advanced Studies in American Literature at the Catholic University of Uruguay[3†]. His work in this role contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of Latin American literature[3†].

Rela was not only a respected academic but also a prolific writer. He authored more than 100 works, focusing on writers and cultural personalities of Uruguay[3†]. His writings have been instrumental in shedding light on the rich literary tradition of Uruguay and Latin America[3†].

In addition to his work in Uruguay, Rela’s influence extended beyond national borders. He taught Latin American Literature in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil[3†]. Furthermore, he served as a Visiting Professor at several universities in the United States[3†]. These experiences allowed him to share his knowledge and passion for Latin American literature with a broader audience[3†].

Throughout his career, Rela demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance rigorous academic research with a deep appreciation for the art of literature. His contributions to the field have left a lasting impact, enriching the study of Latin American literature[3†].

First Publication of His Main Works

Walter Rela’s literary contributions are extensive and varied, reflecting his deep understanding and passion for Latin American literature and history. Here are some of his main works:

• Juana de Ibarbourou: Manuscritos inéditos, poesía y prosa: This book is a tribute to the centenary of Juana de Ibarbourou’s birth. It contains unpublished manuscripts, poetry, and prose[4†].
• Rodó en la crítica de Pedro Henriquez Ureña (Colección literaria): This work focuses on the criticism of José Enrique Rodó by Pedro Henriquez Ureña[4†].
• Literatura Uruguaya: Bibliografia Selectiva (Special Studies, No 26): A selective bibliography of Uruguayan literature[4†].
• Uruguay: Cronología histórica anotada: An annotated historical chronology of Uruguay[4†].
• España en el Río de la Plata: Descubrimiento y poblamientos, 1516-1588: This book discusses the discovery and settlements of Spain in the Río de la Plata between 1516 and 1588[4†].
• El manuscrito de 1772: Noticia de la banda norte del Río de la Plata por el marino español Francisco Millau (Historia marítima del Uruguay): This book discusses a manuscript from 1772 about the north bank of the Río de la Plata by the Spanish sailor Francisco Millau[4†].
• Uruguay: Cronología Histórica Documentada: A documented historical chronology of Uruguay[4†].
• A Bibliographical Guide to Spanish American Literature: Twentieth-Century Sources: A comprehensive reference work for serious scholarship on Latin American literature with sources through 1986[4†][5†].
• Teatro uruguayo, 1808-1994: Historia: A history of Uruguayan theater from 1808 to 1994[4†].
• Colonia del sacramento 1678-1778: Historia política, militar y diplomática: A political, military, and diplomatic history of Colonia del Sacramento from 1678 to 1778[4†].
• Artigas: Cronología histórica anotada, 1811-1820: An annotated historical chronology of José Artigas from 1811 to 1820[4†].

These works reflect Walter Rela’s dedication to the study of Latin American literature and history, and his commitment to making this knowledge accessible to a wider audience[4†][5†][2†].

Analysis and Evaluation

Walter Rela’s work has been instrumental in shaping the understanding of Latin American literature and history. His meticulous research and insightful analysis have provided a comprehensive view of various cultural personalities of Uruguay[6†]. His work is characterized by a deep commitment to historical accuracy and a profound respect for the cultural heritage of Latin America[6†].

Rela’s extensive bibliography of Uruguayan literature is a testament to his dedication to his field[6†]. His work has not only enriched the academic discourse but also made this knowledge accessible to a wider audience[6†]. His publications, such as “Uruguay: Cronología Histórica Documentada”, are considered valuable resources for anyone interested in the history of Uruguay[6†].

Rela’s work on José Artigas, a national hero of Uruguay, is particularly noteworthy[6†]. His annotated historical chronology provides a detailed account of Artigas’s life from 1811 to 1820[6†]. This work reflects Rela’s ability to bring historical figures to life through careful research and nuanced analysis[6†].

Despite his significant contributions, it’s important to note that Rela’s work is not without its critics. Some scholars argue that his focus on certain figures and periods may overshadow other important aspects of Uruguayan history[6†]. However, these criticisms do not diminish the overall value of Rela’s work[6†].

In conclusion, Walter Rela’s work has left a lasting impact on the study of Latin American literature and history. His rigorous research, insightful analysis, and dedication to his field have earned him a place among the most respected scholars of Latin American literature[6†].

Personal Life

Walter Rela was born on May 31, 1922, in Montevideo, Uruguay[1†]. His parents were Juan Pablo Rela Hernández and Eva Pastora Villanueva[1†]. Despite his extensive academic and professional commitments, Rela was known to be a dedicated family man[1†].

In his personal life, Rela was a firm believer in the power of digital media as a tool for disseminating his work. He ensured that his work was available on his website and in repositories with his express authorization[1†]. This shows his forward-thinking approach and his commitment to making knowledge accessible to all.

Rela passed away on December 30, 2016[1†]. His extensive and dedicated work, particularly in the field of Latin American literature, continues to be recognized and celebrated posthumously[1†].

Conclusion and Legacy

Walter Rela’s legacy is deeply rooted in the academic and literary world. His extensive body of work, which includes over 100 works about writers and cultural personalities of Uruguay[7†], continues to be a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Latin American literature[7†][8†][7†].

One of his notable works is "Personalidades de la cultura en el Uruguay: Humanistas y Científicos"[7†][8†]. This work, like many others, was made available by Rela himself on his website, demonstrating his commitment to making knowledge accessible[7†][8†].

Rela’s work in the field of literature has left an indelible mark on Latin American literature[7†][8†][7†]. His meticulous research and profound understanding of literature have contributed significantly to the field[7†][8†][7†].

Even after his passing in 2016[7†], Walter Rela’s work continues to be recognized and celebrated. His dedication to his field and his commitment to sharing knowledge have ensured that his legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations[7†][8†][7†].

Key Information

• Also Known As: Unknown
• Born: Walter Rela was born on May 31, 1922[7†].
• Died: December 30, 2016[1†]
• Nationality: Uruguayan[7†]
• Occupation: Walter Rela was a distinguished professor, historian, and writer[7†][2†]. He served as the Director of Research and Advanced Studies in American Literature at the Catholic University of Uruguay[7†][2†]. He also taught Latin American Literature in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil, and was a Visiting Professor at several universities in the United States[7†][2†].
• Notable Works: Walter Rela is known for his extensive body of work that includes over 100 pieces on writers and cultural figures from Uruguay[7†]. His works are available for free download and streaming[7†].
• Notable Achievements: His profound contributions to literature and history have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Uruguay[7†].

References and Citations:

1. Wikipedia (Spanish) - Walter Rela [website] - link
2. Bloomsbury Publishing - Walter Rela [website] - link
3. World History - Walter Raleigh [website] - link
4. Goodreads - Author: Books by Walter Rela (Author of Juana de Ibarbourou) [website] - link
5. Bloomsbury Publishing - A Bibliographical Guide to Spanish American Literature [website] - link
6. JSTOR - The Agency-Structure Problem in Foreign Policy Analysis [website] - link
7. Internet Archive - LITERATURA URUGUAYA : WALTER RELA [website] - link
8. Internet Archive - Walter Rela 2002 Personalidades De La Cultura En El Uruguay : Walter Rela [website] - link
9. Walter Rela [website][archive] - link