José Gálvez_The Transformation of Lima after 1895

The Transformation of Lima after 1895

Economic and Political Stability

• By the late 19th century, Lima underwent significant modernization due to economic prosperity and political stability.

• This modernization impacted state institutions, urbanism, legal codes, military and police forces, and education.

• The changes evoked nostalgia among the people of Lima, who felt that the romanticized old city was morphing into a metropolis characterized by crime and danger.

José Gálvez's Perspective

• José Gálvez (1885–1957), a poet, journalist, and politician, chronicled Lima's changes in his book "Una Lima que se va" (A Lima That Slips Away, 1921).

• Despite his nostalgia, Gálvez embraced modernization, praising it for its contributions to civilization, including:

  • The growth of public life and practice of sports.

  • The inclusion of the working classes into political processes.

  • The emergence of a vibrant intellectual community.

Key Transformative Events

• Under President Nicolás de Piérola, Peru experienced a radical transformation. Gálvez noted immediate, profound changes across the nation:

  • The abolishment of former brutal disciplinary measures in schools.

  • Adoption of healthier recreational activities like soccer and cricket over traditional violent sports.

  • Formation of sports clubs such as Club Unión Cricket, promoting gentlemanly competition.

Intellectual and Cultural Renaissance

• Gálvez observed a revival of intellectual activities:

  • Influential figures like poet José Santos Chocano gained prominence.

  • A new generation of writers began earning pay and producing specialized information in newspapers.

Changes in Society and Entertainment

• Profound shifts in social life included:

  • A decline in the tumultuous behavior that characterized prior interactions among students and the emergence of sporting events.

  • A renewal of artistic engagement and a shift away from previous entertainment styles.

  • Less emphasis on traditional music and dance styles such as waltzes and polkas.

Political Order and Civic Life

• Political life improved, with the revolution of 1895 marking a turning point by curbing violent confrontations:

  • Political debates became more civil and focused.

  • The national police began to earn more respect and reduced public disorder.

  • A working-class deputy was elected to Congress, reflecting political inclusivity.

Changes in Urban Life

• Social structure transformed significantly, affecting public perception and social interactions:

  • Neighborhoods began to lose their hostility towards outsiders.

  • Increased mobility due to better transport options facilitated the mingling of diverse social groups.

Overall Impact

• Despite nostalgia for the past, Gálvez concluded that Lima's transformation brought about substantial improvements, enhancing the city’s civilization.

• The old limeño identity faced challenges, with concerns about modernization making the city feel characterless.

• The mix of melancholy and recognition of progress reflected a complex civic evolution in Lima.