Efraín Leonidas Pérez Castro (Guayaquil, November 16, 1912 – May 2, 2001) was an Ecuadorian writer, journalist, and columnist. As the son of Ismael Pérez Pazmiño, founder of El Universo, he played a key role in the newspaper’s development alongside his brothers. Pérez Castro was known for his insightful editorial columns and his contributions to Ecuadorian literature, publishing works such as Prosa y verso (1960). He was also an active member of cultural organizations like the Círculo de Periodistas del Guayas and Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. In 1992, he was awarded the National Order of Merit for his contributions to Ecuador’s cultural landscape.
Early Life and Education
Efraín Leonidas Pérez Castro was born on November 16, 1912, in Guayaquil, Ecuador, as the sixth of nine children of Ismael Pérez Pazmiño and Herlinda Castro Santander. His father, Ismael Pérez Pazmiño, was a prominent figure in Ecuadorian journalism, having founded El Universo, one of the country’s leading newspapers. Efraín completed his primary and secondary education in Quito, before pursuing higher studies abroad. He studied Philosophy and Letters in Madrid and later attended courses in Psychology and Social Sciences in Mexico.
Career in Journalism and Literature
Efraín Pérez Castro’s journalistic career began at an early age, influenced by his father’s legacy. He joined El Universo, the family’s newspaper, where he worked closely with his brothers, Ismael, Sucre, and Francisco, contributing to the development and consolidation of the publication. Over the years, Pérez Castro maintained a column in the editorial section, known for his thoughtful, refined, yet accessible writing style that resonated with a wide readership.
Beyond journalism, Efraín was a literary figure, writing both prose and poetry. His most notable work, Prosa y verso (1960), showcased his literary range. He was an active member of various cultural and intellectual organizations, including the Círculo de Periodistas del Guayas (Cipeg), Agrupación Cultura y Fraternidad, and the Guayas chapter of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. Additionally, he served on the Consultative Board of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting his involvement in public affairs.
Efraín also gave conferences and collaborated with both national and international publications, extending his influence beyond Ecuador.
Personal Life and Challenges
Efraín married Diamela Camacho, though the couple eventually divorced. They had at least one child, Hernán Pérez Loose, who would later become a notable legal scholar. Despite his family’s connection to El Universo, Efraín’s personal financial situation was modest, as his sole source of income was his writing. Throughout his life, he maintained a strong civic sense and was committed to the principles of democracy and press freedom.
The family endured significant challenges, particularly during times of political unrest in Ecuador. During a period of dictatorship, El Universo was shut down, and Efraín, along with his brothers, faced imprisonment due to their opposition to authoritarian regimes. This period underscored the Pérez family’s commitment to independent journalism and freedom of expression.
Recognition and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions to Ecuadorian culture and journalism, Efraín Pérez Castro was awarded the National Order of Merit in the Grade of Officer by the Ecuadorian government in 1992. He is remembered as a man of universal culture, always attuned to the societal changes of his time, and his writing reflected a balanced intellectual perspective committed to the causes of his nation.
Efraín Pérez Castro passed away in Ecuador on May 2, 2001, leaving a significant impact on Ecuadorian journalism and literature. He is remembered for his contributions to El Universo, which he helped shape throughout his life, and for his legacy of resilience in the face of political challenges.
Selected Works
- Prosa y verso (1960) – This is his most recognized work, a collection that features both prose and poetry, showcasing his literary range.
- Elementos de derecho público económico: sectores estratégicos en la Constitución Económica, Empresas Estatales y Servicios Públicos (2014) – Though published posthumously, this work focuses on public economic law and strategic sectors in Ecuador’s economic constitution. It highlights his engagement with non-fiction and legal matters.
References
- El Universo, “Hoy, un siglo del natalicio del escritor Efraín Pérez Castro.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- Geneanet, “Efraín Pérez Castro.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- Mundo Diners, “Entrevista a Hernán Pérez Loose.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- El Universo, “Hace 9 años falleció Carlos Pérez Perasso.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- El Universo, “Directores de El Universo.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- El Universo, “Historia de El Universo.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.
- Biblioteca y Archivo de la CCE, “Prosa y verso by Efraín Pérez Castro.” Retrieved on October 23, 2024. Click to view.