The article reflects on a brief encounter with the renowned Mexican historian Miguel León-Portilla, highlighting his kind demeanor and significant contributions to the study of pre-Columbian history.
The article recounts a personal memory of the author meeting Don Miguel León-Portilla, a distinguished Mexican historian known for his work on pre-Hispanic history. The meeting took place in the summer of 2003 at the University Menéndez Pelayo in Santander, Spain, where León-Portilla was present. The author describes the moment of recognition and the warmth of the encounter, showcasing León-Portilla's affability despite being one of the most respected figures in the field of history.
During their interaction, the author expresses a sense of regret for not having a copy of León-Portilla's famous book, 'La Visión de los vencidos' (The Broken Spears), which discusses the Aztec perspective during the Spanish conquest. This reflection highlights an important aspect of León-Portilla's work, emphasizing his role in providing a voice to the indigenous perspective, a contribution that has remained relevant in contemporary discussions about history and culture in Mexico.
Ultimately, this article serves not only as a personal tribute to León-Portilla but also as an acknowledgment of his enduring legacy in Mexican history. Through storytelling, the author underscores the significance of León-Portilla's scholarship as a bridge between past and present, fostering a deeper understanding of indigenous histories and identities in Mexico and his influence on future generations of historians and scholars.
