Mariano Velázquez de la Cadena

Mariano Velázquez (June 28, 1778 – February 19, 1860), (full name Mariano Velázquez de la Cadena) was a Mexican grammarian, scholar, and author in the 19th century. He was appointed Professor of Spanish Language and Literature at Columbia College in 1830, a position that he held until his death in 1861.

Early life

Velazquez was born in Mexico City, a descendant of Don Antonio De La Cadena Maluenda (Anusim), Treasurer of New Spain 1525. At age seven, he was sent away to Madrid to pursue his education. In Madrid, he was admitted to the Royal Seminary of Nobles, where he studied philosophy and law until he graduated in 1799.

Public service

Although not of legal age, Velázquez was admitted, by special royal order, to the Council of the Indies in 1800. He held the position of notary while serving the council and was also appointed curator of the estates of minors and interstate estates for the viceroyalty of Mexico. In 1802, he was recalled from the council to become King Charles IV's private secretary. As such, he was sent to represent the king at the 1804 coronation of Napoleon. His position allowed him to make a tour through western and central Europe. Velázquez resigned his post after Charles IV was forced to abdicate and later imprisoned by Napoleon in 1809. After receiving news of Hidalgo's Mexican independence movement, he made arrangements to return to Mexico. Velazquez was unwilling to identify with either of the contending parties and thus resolved to settle in New York, where his scholarly career began.