Irving Iván Zapater (Quito, 1944) is an Ecuadorian lawyer, historian, and cultural leader. He holds a Doctorate in Jurisprudence with postgraduate studies in Economics from La Sapienza University in Rome and in History from the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador. A long-time professor and former Vice Dean at the Faculty of Jurisprudence at his alma mater, Zapater also served as Director of the Central Bank of Ecuador’s Center for Research and Culture (1981-1993) and led the National Council of Culture (1999-2000). He has authored several notable works on Ecuadorian history and economics, including La Vida de Cada Día and Imágenes del Ecuador en el Siglo XX, and was Director of the Revista Nacional de Cultura.
Early Life and Education
Irving Iván Zapater was born in Quito, Ecuador, in 1944. He pursued a Doctorate in Jurisprudence and furthered his academic career with postgraduate studies in Economics at La Sapienza University in Rome, Italy, and in History at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador in Quito. His interdisciplinary education laid the foundation for his extensive contributions to Ecuadorian legal, economic, and cultural spheres.
Academic and Professional Career
Zapater has had a long and distinguished career as a professor at the Faculty of Jurisprudence at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, where he also served as Vice Dean. His academic role has been complemented by significant positions in the public and cultural sectors. Notably, he worked at the Central Bank of Ecuador, where he held several prominent positions, including Director of the Center for Research and Culture from 1981 to 1993.
In addition to his work with the Central Bank, Zapater served as Undersecretary of Culture and presided over the National Council of Culture from 1999 to 2000. His leadership in these roles was pivotal in shaping Ecuador’s cultural and economic heritage preservation. He was also the Director of the renowned Revista Nacional de Cultura, a significant publication in Ecuador’s cultural landscape.
Literary Contributions
Irving Iván Zapater is a prolific writer and historian, known for his insightful works on Ecuadorian history, culture, and the evolution of its economic institutions. Some of his key publications include:
- “La Vida de Cada Día: El Ecuador en Avisos 1822-1939” (1992) – A historical exploration of Ecuadorian daily life through advertisements from 1822 to 1939.
- “Fernando Chaves” (2002) – A biographical work focusing on the life of Fernando Chaves, an influential Ecuadorian figure.
- “Imágenes del Ecuador en el Siglo XX” (2003) – A visual and historical depiction of 20th-century Ecuador.
- “Banco Central del Ecuador, Ochenta Años, 1927-2007” (2007) – A commemorative volume celebrating 80 years of the Central Bank of Ecuador.
- “Memorias del Premio Nacional Eugenio Espejo” (2009) – A reflection on Ecuador’s most prestigious cultural award.
He also contributed to important catalogs such as the Catálogo de la Sala de Arte de la República (1995) and Catálogo de la Sala del Oro (1995), highlighting the art and archaeological collections of Ecuador’s national museums.
Cultural Leadership
As a cultural leader, Zapater played a key role in editing and curating works for various collections supported by the National Council of Culture. His editorial work extended beyond his own publications, where he influenced the broader intellectual and cultural discourse in Ecuador.
Legacy and Influence
Irving Iván Zapater’s impact on Ecuadorian history, culture, and economics is enduring. His scholarly contributions, both as a historian and cultural leader, have enriched the understanding of Ecuador’s social, economic, and cultural development. His work with the Central Bank and the National Council of Culture underscored his commitment to preserving Ecuador’s historical legacy and promoting its intellectual heritage. His numerous publications remain valuable resources for researchers and students of Ecuadorian history.
Selected Works
- La Vida de Cada Día: El Ecuador en Avisos 1822-1939 (1992)
- Fernando Chaves (2002)
- Imágenes del Ecuador en el Siglo XX (2003)
- Banco Central del Ecuador, Ochenta Años, 1927-2007 (2007)
- Memorias del Premio Nacional Eugenio Espejo (2009)