Introduction
The three most challenging aspects of life are said to be utilizing time wisely, forgiving an offense, and keeping a secret. However, imagine the complexity when it extends beyond personal confidences and communications, with everything documented on paper, no option to “save as,” and storage ranging from a binder or cardboard box to a large cabinet filled with drawers. It becomes even more remarkable when such papers and documents chronicle a nation’s history, allowing access to countless secrets and evident truths. This is why we celebrate today, as all these writings have finally been gathered and organized under one roof.
Historical Background
According to history, the process was lengthy and began in 1790 when Viceroy Juan Vicente Güemes Pacheco y Padilla, the second Count of Revillagigedo, requested authorization from Spain’s Ministry of Grace and Justice to establish the General Archive of New Spain. The plan was to store the folders in Chapultepec Palace, keeping them safe from frequent city flooding and accommodating numerous volumes of old papers neatly and cleanly.
Although the location and objectives were perfect, this grand project, like many ambitious dreams, was not executed. The documents, once the most prized conquest of the Spanish Crown, ended up at the Royal Virreinal Palace near Revillagigedo.
Lucas Alamán’s Efforts
It was Lucas Alamán, a well-versed historian and three-time Minister of Foreign Affairs, who ensured the Archivo General y Público de la Nación was inaugurated on August 23, 1823, at the now-National Palace. Although no one objected to its location, the documents still lacked proper organization and logic.
Francisco P. Urquidi’s Contribution
In 1872, Francisco P. Urquidi took charge of the project and meticulously classified 18,480 folders, arranged them on shelves, repaired 3,460 volumes, created 19 maps and indices, and began indexing the Vínculos section. He also counted, separated, and appraised sellable works and sorted reserved documents for the Supreme Government into 13 volumes.
Evolution of the Archive
The Reform and Revolution brought changes, and in 1918, the collection’s name was officially changed to the Archivo General de la Nación. By presidential decree, it became financially dependent on the Secretaría de Gobernación for organization and operation.
Some documents were preserved in the Guadalupe Church, also known as Casa Amarilla, which benefited Tacubaya’s barrio. In 1977, the archive moved again to Lecumberri Penitentiary, built by Porfirio Díaz in 1900 and infamous for tragic events, including the assassinations of President Francisco I. Madero and Vice President José María Pino Suárez.
Preservation Amidst Controversy
Despite calls for the building’s destruction, many advocated for its preservation, arguing that bricks were not responsible for the bloodshed and emphasizing the importance of maintaining historical monuments that shaped a city’s identity.
A renovation project allowed the space to reopen on August 27, 1982, for anyone interested in its rich history.
Conclusion: The Archive’s Enduring Value
As we celebrate this month’s end, the Archivo General de la Nación remains our most valuable cultural deposit, safeguarding not only our past but also all our truths and secrets.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Archivo General de la Nación? It is Mexico’s National Archive, which houses historical documents that chronicle the nation’s history.
- Who initiated the creation of the Archive? Viceroy Juan Vicente Güemes Pacheco y Padilla requested authorization from Spain’s Ministry of Grace and Justice in 1790.
- Who played a crucial role in the Archive’s establishment? Lucas Alamán, a prominent historian and three-time Minister of Foreign Affairs, ensured its inauguration on August 23, 1823.
- What challenges did the Archive face? The Archive lacked proper organization and logic despite its ideal location and purpose.
- How has the Archive evolved over time? It underwent name changes, relocations, and renovations, ultimately becoming a vital cultural deposit safeguarding Mexico’s history.
