Biography of Thomas Estrada Palma


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Palma, Thomas Estrada. Cuban patriot. Born in Bayamo, Cuba. Studied law at University of Seville, but never practiced. Took part in the Cuban revolution of 1868-78, in the early part of which his mother had been captured and starved to death by the Spaniards. Her death made him heir to a vast estate, which the Spaniards confiscated. He became president of the Cuban Republic, but was capture in 1877, and imprisoned until hostilities ceased in 1878; then went to Honduras. Became teacher and later postmaster-general. Married a daughter of President Guardiola. Came to the U.S.; settled in Central Valley, NY. During last revolution delegate-at-large and minister plenipotentiary for Cuban Republic, president of Cuba, 1902-06. Died 1908.