Jaime Torres Bodet (1902–74) was a Mexican poet, novelist, diplomat, and educator who shaped Mexico’s cultural and educational policies. His literary and political contributions made him a leading 20th-century intellectual.
Born in Mexico City, he studied law and literature at the National University of Mexico and co-founded the magazine Contemporáneos (1928–31.) His poetry collections, including Fervor (1918,) El corazón delirante (1922,) La casa (1923,) and Cripta (1937,) explored identity, solitude, and existential reflection.
Beyond literature, Torres Bodet served as Minister of Public Education (1943–46, 1958–64) and Minister of Foreign Affairs (1946–48,) expanding literacy programs and modernizing Mexico’s education system. As Secretary-General of UNESCO (1948–52,) he advanced global education initiatives.
His autobiographical work Memorias (4 vols., 1981) provides insight into his intellectual and political journey. He also authored essays on education and diplomacy, shaping Mexico’s cultural policies.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Jaime Torres Bodet
Wisdom and beauty are the twin arches of that invisible bridge which leads from the individual conscience—ever rebellious against its destiny—to man’s collective conscience, ever in search of general progress.
—Jaime Torres Bodet
Topics: Conscience
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