Alfonso Cobo Velasco proudly quotes a description of himself, by an admiring Conservative Senator, as a “belligerent defender of Conservatism.” The phrase sums up the attitudes and opinions expressed in this work. It also aptly characterizes its structure.
This volume is a scrapbook of historical, biographical, and genealogical details in the history of Cali (invariably referred to as Santiago de Cali), from the sixteenth century to the present. The entries are organized by the day of the month, rather than chronologically or topically. For example, May 7, 1955, on the appearance of a new Conservative political weekly, immediately precedes May 10, 1540, on the arrival of Don Pascual de Andagoya, who opportunely reached Cali in time to save it from the marauding Pijaos. The advantages of such an organization must be few. Fortunately, the book does have an index, which permits somewhat rational use.
Considerable attention is paid the conquistadores and their descendants. As might be expected, Cayzedos and Borreros come in for frequent reference, and Velascos and Cobos are discussed at length. The achievements of Conservatives are listed in detail; Liberal caleños are given short shrift. The author views with horror the downfall of Rojas Pinilla and the establishment of the Frente Nacional. Needless to say, the famous slaughter of Liberal leaders in Cali’s Casa Liberal, in October, 1949, goes unrecorded.
This volume might be found of use as a ready biographical reference for the initial stages of research into the history of Cali. It also could serve as a source on one variant of Colombian Conservatism. Further than that, it is hard to imagine its utility.
