Eugenio María de Hostos y de Bonilla was a Puerto Rican educator, writer and patriot, born in 1839 in Río Cañas, Mayagüez. Hostos attended school in Mayagüez and San Juan and studied law in Spain where he fought to liberalize Spain’s colonial rule of Cuba and Puerto Rico.
Known as “El Gran Ciudadano de las Américas” (The Great Citizen of the Americas), Hostos was a pioneering advocate for universal education, women’s rights, and the abolition of slavery, leaving a lasting impact in Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, and Colombia.
Monument to Hostos in San Juan, PR
The College bears his name in recognition of his lifelong commitment to educational equity and justice, principles that form the very foundation of the community demands that led to the founding of Hostos Community College in the South Bronx.
To learn how the College got its name, listen to the late Nasry Michelen, the first Hostos Community College president tell the story.
Biographical Videos
In the videos below, Hostos biographer Professor Marcos Reyes Davila shares some fascinating insights into Don Eugenio's character, his legacy and his bravery.
In this first video, Hostos’ concepts of patriotism and his universalistic view of humanity and society, and how they were driven by his unshakeable belief in equality and dignity for all people.
Don Eugenio’s pedagogical work as an educator and pioneering champion of women’s education are explored in this next video.
Don Eugenio’s exploits and accomplishments were possible thanks to his determination and courage. His fearlessness was not limited to tackling intellectual questions, however. He also showed great bravery and aplomb when facing the awesome power of nature and natural disasters