José Presas y Marull: The Diplomat and Secretary of Carlota Joaquina
José Presas y Marull was a multifaceted figure of the early 19th century, serving as a Spanish attorney, writer, politician, diplomat, and historian. Born in Catalonia, his life spanned several continents and political upheavals, eventually leading him to a position of significant influence as the private secretary to Carlota Joaquina of Spain.
Key Facts
- Origin: Born in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Catalonia, Spain.
- Education: Studied at the College of San Carlos and likely earned a doctorate in law from the University of Saint Francis Xavier.
- Key Role: Served as the private secretary to Infanta Carlota Joaquina.
- Political Activity: Supported the British during the invasions in the Río de la Plata.
- Death: Passed away in 1832 in Madrid, Spain.
Early Life and Education in Buenos Aires
The son of Jerónimo Roselló y Presas and Margarita Morull, José Presas moved to Buenos Aires around 1790. During his time there, he immersed himself in legal studies at the College of San Carlos and is believed to have obtained his doctorate in law from the University of Saint Francis Xavier. He maintained strong family ties in the city; he was the nephew of Francisco Marull, who owned the Botica del Colegio, a pharmacy situated across from the Church of San Ignacio.
Presas was well-integrated into the international community of colonial Buenos Aires. He maintained cordial relations with both English and American residents, a connection exemplified by his relationship with John Cook, a Boston native who served as his godfather. Presas was baptized at the Cathedral of Buenos Aires on November 8, 1804.
Political Turmoil and Exile
The political landscape of the Río de la Plata became volatile during the early 1800s. In 1805, José Presas was arrested on accusations of attempting to destabilize the government led by Viceroy Sobremonte. Although he was later released, his political leanings remained controversial.
During the British invasions of the Río de la Plata, Presas aligned himself with the British forces. This political stance eventually forced him to seek refuge in Rio de Janeiro in 1808. It was in Brazil that his career took a prestigious turn when he was appointed as the secretary to the Infanta Carlota, the daughter of King Charles IV of Spain.
Summary of Personal and Professional Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Catalonia, Spain |
| Death | 1832, Madrid, Spain |
| Professions | Attorney, Writer, Politician, Diplomat, Historian |
| Notable Association | Secretary to Carlota Joaquina of Spain |
| Academic Background | Law (University of Saint Francis Xavier) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was José Presas y Marull?
He was a Spanish attorney, historian, and diplomat of Catalan origin who served as the private secretary to Carlota Joaquina of Spain.
Where did José Presas y Marull study law?
He was a student at the College of San Carlos and likely received his doctorate in law from the University of Saint Francis Xavier.
Why was he arrested in 1805?
He was accused of attempting to destabilize the government of the viceroy Sobremonte.
What was his role during the British invasions of the Río de la Plata?
He supported the British during the invasions, which eventually led him to seek refuge in Rio de Janeiro in 1808.
When and where did he die?
José Presas y Marull died in 1832 in Madrid, Spain.