Gómez Palacio

Francisco Gómez Palacio y Bravo (May 29, 1824, in Victoria de Durango, Durango, Mexico – February 27, 1886, in Victoria de Durango, Durango) was a Mexican writer, educator, jurist and Liberal politician. He served twice as governor of the State of Durango (1867–68 and 1880–83). In October 1887 he was declared Benemérito of the state by the Legislature. Gómez's father, Victoriano Gómez del Palacio, was a Spaniard by birth.[1] His mother, María Manuela Eutimia Bravo de Castilla Monserrate, was born in Nombre De Dios, Durango, Mexico.[2] They were 39 and 24, respectively, when they had Gómez. Gómez studied in the Seminario Conciliar of Durango, considered at this time to be the best educational institution in northern Mexico. He grew up in an atmosphere of culture, with excellent teachers, and came to love scholarship. He was fluent in six foreign languages — Greek, Latin, English, French, German and Italian. He was considered one of the most cultured men of his time, not only in Durango but in the country. His speeches were enriched with quotes from classical and world thinkers.