Escritos. Amalio Sáiz de Bustamante y García

Amalio Sáiz de Bustamante was born in Queveda, Santillana del Mar, in 1864. His father, Juan José, was part of the large group originally from Cantabria that emigrated to Jerez during the 19th century. Amalio arrives in Jerez de la Frontera when he is barely four years old and it is there that he begins his education. After receiving his secondary school certificate, he studied Law in Madrid, graduating in 1886 and then returning to Jerez. At that time, the Jerez region was immersed in a deep crisis, motivated by the difficulties that the wine industry was going through. The Spanish-American War also occurred, with its enormous repercussions. They were propitious times to renew or die. At that time, two institutions stood out in Jerez: the Ateneo and the Chamber of Commerce, to which Amalio joined, promoting ambitious initiatives in favor of the desired regeneration of the region. Amalio distinguished himself for his tenacity to bring these projects to a successful conclusion, as well as for bis fight against social inequalities and «caciquismo», receiving recognition for bis work being named honorary citizen of Jerez de la Frontera and receiving the public tribute from the City, which is reflected in the commemorative plaque that adorns the facade of its railway station. This book recovers a selection of writings that allows to follow the most relevant events of Amalio's multifaceted activity, narrated in his own words.