María Ángeles Infante, daughter of Blas Infante and President of the Foundation that bears his name, passed away in the early hours of April 4, 2024, just before turning 94 years old. She held the presidency of the Blas Infante Foundation and dedicated her life to preserving the historical legacy of her father, who was killed by Francoist military in August 1936 during the military repression that followed the military coup of July 18 in the streets and institutions of Seville. She founded the Foundation in 1983 along with the then president of the Junta de Andalucía, Rafael Escuredo.
The Blas Infante Foundation, which announced the news of her passing this morning, has been devoted over the years to studying the life, work, and thoughts of Blas Infante, author of “Ideal Andaluz,” and to researching historical Andalusian nationalism and its influence on Andalusian politics and society, as well as promoting Andalusian culture. In 2022, María Ángeles Infante received the Manuel Clavero Medal awarded to the Blas Infante Foundation by the Junta de Andalucía on Andalusia Day, for preserving and promoting her father’s historical legacy and for being a carrier of the memory of the Andalusian leader who was a victim of Francoist repression.
With this loss, the recurring situation in many Andalusian families is seen once again, where descendants pass away without being able to fulfill the goal of finding the remains of their ancestors who were killed during the fascist barbarism. Many expressions of condolences have been directed towards her family from various institutions and organizations since the early hours of Thursday morning, as well as from the main political leaders of the main social and political forces of our land. The Andalusian Federation of Historical and Democratic Memory and all its members also join in expressing their condolences. May she rest in peace. Long live Andalusia!
Antonio Manuel Mateos, spokesperson for the Andalusian Federation of Democratic Memory, highlights the importance of María Ángeles Infante’s work in preserving the memory of her father and promoting Andalusian culture. Her passing marks a significant loss for Andalusia and its historical legacy, as she dedicated her life to honoring the memory of her father and spreading the ideals of Andalusian nationalism. The Andalusian people and various organizations have expressed their condolences and admiration for her work, recognizing her dedication to preserving the history and heritage of the region.
María Ángeles Infante’s death brings attention to the ongoing struggles of many Andalusian families who have lost relatives to Francoist repression and have been unable to locate their remains. Her commitment to honoring her father’s memory through the Blas Infante Foundation has been recognized with awards and accolades, underscoring the significance of her efforts in promoting Andalusian culture and history. As tributes and condolences pour in from across Andalusia and beyond, María Ángeles Infante’s legacy as a champion of Andalusian identity and heritage remains a powerful beacon for future generations to cherish and uphold.
