José Gervasio Artigas Memorial

General José Gervasio Artigas Memorial

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Public Transit, Wheelchair Accessible

José Gervasio Artigas (1764–1850) is revered as the national hero of Uruguay and a leading figure in the independence struggles of the Río de la Plata region. Born in Montevideo, Artigas rose as a military and political leader during the early 19th century, resisting Spanish colonial authority and later opposing Portuguese and Brazilian expansion. He was a strong advocate for federalism, regional autonomy, and social reform, promoting land redistribution and protections for rural and Indigenous populations. Defeated politically and militarily, Artigas spent his final decades in exile in Paraguay, but his ideals of popular sovereignty and republican government became foundational to Uruguay’s national identity.

Located at Constitution Avenue and 18th Street NW, the memorial to Artigas reflects both his legacy and a mid-20th-century effort to strengthen inter-American friendship. The idea for the statue originated in 1940 with Uruguayan officer Edgardo Ubaldo Genta, who envisioned it as a goodwill gesture from the people of Uruguay to the United States. The statue was paid for by the contributions of Uruguayan school children as well as an appropriation of the Uruguayan Chamber of Deputies. The sculpture was completed in 1948 by artist Juan Manuel Blanes and presented as a gift, though it was not dedicated until June 19, 1950, coinciding with the centennial year of Artigas’ death.

Sometimes called the Gaucho Statue, it depicts General Artigas in battle dress, one hand holding his hat, the other resting on the hilt of his sword. At the base of the memorial is an engraved inscription that captures Artigas’ guiding vision: “Liberty of America is my dream and its attainment my only hope.” The simplicity of the memorial’s design draws attention to both the figure and the message, reinforcing Artigas’ reputation as a leader motivated by principle rather than personal ambition. The surrounding open space and landscaped approaches allow visitors to view the statue from multiple angles and provide room for ceremonies and quiet reflection.

Today, the José Gervasio Artigas Memorial stands as a lasting symbol of hemispheric ties and shared democratic aspirations. It honors a leader whose influence extended beyond national borders and affirms the enduring connections between the United States and the peoples of South America.

To see more Latino leader memorials and statues in DC, visit the Avenue of Latino Leaders page.