7
May
It is the 100th anniversary of her birthday today. Eva Perón is still adored by many Argentines for helping women get the vote, securing labour benefits for the working classes, and founding hospitals and orphanages.
A photograph of Eva Perón is still frequently found next to a copy of the Our Lady Guadalupe icon in many Argentinian households.
She was not a natural born leader but made as such by Juan Perón who thoroughly used her ability to work hard.
Her traits traditionally cited as feminine, allowed the ambitious politician to create an undying image of new Argentine woman out of Evita.
She started as a light shadow next to the president and turned into his political alter ego. Her 9-year career left an indelible trail in the historical memory of the Argentine people.
The political symbol of Eva Perón boosted many fundamental changes in the country, catalysing the increased role of women in the country.
The idea of a girl who was born in poverty in the rural village of Los Toldos and became the first lady of Argentina arose the waves of female equality around South America.
The wife of Argentine President was called the ‘Shield of Perón’ for giving every bit of herself to the success of the Perón Administration.
Already dying, she still passionately preached for support the President’s candidacy to the Argentine people, as if stating her last will and testament.
After the inauguration ceremony, Juan Perón awarded the first female politician of Argentina with the honorary title of ‘Spiritual Leader of the Nation’.
So far, history knows no other female politician who was completely supported by strong man, instead of fighting her way alone to success.
The story of Evita is about the Argentine Pygmalion and his ‘Fair Lady’ who tangoed into the politics. Their unity must be one of the main reasons why the myth about the ‘Bridge of Love’ between the authority and people is still lively cherished after all these years.
Yesterday 100 women took to the streets of Buenos Aires dressed as Evita, the cultural icon of Argentina.