The National University of San Marcos provided the academic foundation for Hilda Gadea, a Peruvian economist and political activist whose work spanned multiple nations. Her career began in Peru, where she served as the Secretary of the Economy for the Alianza Popular Revolucionaria Americana, before political pressures forced her into exile in 1948.
Political Activism and Exile
Before leaving Peru, Gadea held a significant role within the Alianza Popular Revolucionaria Americana, managing the economy for the organization's executive committee. Her political involvement necessitated her departure from her home country in 1948. She subsequently traveled to Guatemala, where she met Che Guevara in December 1953. This meeting marked the beginning of a period characterized by political instability that eventually compelled both to move to Mexico.
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In September 1955, Gadea married Guevara in Mexico after discovering she was pregnant. The couple had one daughter, Hilda Beatriz Guevara Gadea, born in February 1956. Their relationship underwent significant changes following the Cuban Revolution. Upon arriving in Cuba, Gadea was informed by Guevara that he wished to end their marriage to pursue a relationship with Aleida March. The couple finalized their divorce in May 1959.
Writing and Legacy
Gadea remained committed to the political movement associated with Guevara throughout her life. She documented her experiences in the memoir My Life With Che. Her intellectual and political contributions were noted internationally, with her life later serving as the subject of a theatrical work by Gabriel San Roman for Z Magazine. She spent her final years in Cuba, dying in Havana in 1974.
Fast facts
- Born: 21 March 1921, Lima
- Died: 11 February 1974, Havana
- Citizenship: Peru, Cuba
- Education: National University of San Marcos
- Spouse: Che Guevara
- Daughter: Hilda Beatriz Guevara Gadea
- Primary Occupations: Economist, writer, political activist
- Key Publication: My Life With Che
Questions readers ask
What was Gadea's profession?
She was an economist, writer, and political activist.
Did Gadea continue supporting the revolutionary movement after her divorce?
Yes, she remained loyal to the political movement associated with Che Guevara until her death.
