'I am my memory', the testament of Miguel León-Portilla
Historian Miguel León-Portilla dictated his memoirs titled 'Soy mi memoria' before his passing, capturing his life and thoughts.
Miguel León-Portilla, a renowned historian who passed away in 2019, embarked on a personal journey to document his life story in his final days. Rather than writing from a desk, he conveyed his memories orally, dictating the narrative that compiled into the book 'Soy mi memoria', which is scheduled for publication in 2026. The book promises to delve into his life experiences, struggles, anecdotes, and profound thoughts that shaped his legacy as a prominent figure in Mexican history, particularly recognized for his work 'Visión de los vencidos'.
In an interview with MILENIO, Diego García del Gállego, who oversaw the design and editorial care of León-Portilla's publication, shares insights about the inception and challenges of this significant project. The journey of creating 'Soy mi memoria' began in 2019, during León-Portilla's hospitalization while he was recuperating. Although his health condition posed challenges, his resolve to recount his memories sparked interest among the editorial community, leading to the collaboration for this memoir.
This book not only serves as a personal testament of León-Portilla’s experiences but also reflects a broader dialogue about Mexican history and identity through the lens of a significant academic. As the publication date approaches, it is anticipated that 'Soy mi memoria' will provide readers with a rich and intimate portrayal of a thinker who greatly contributed to the understanding of Mexican heritage, ensuring his insights and legacies resonate with future generations.