The Pueblo and the Politics of History and Historiography in the Writings of Andrés Bello and Francisco Bilbao.

The article focuses on the role of historiography in the nation-building processes of nineteenth-century Spanish America, particularly in Chile, highlighting the contributions of intellectuals Andrés Bello and Francisco Bilbao. Following the wars of independence, these figures grappled with the challenge of defining national identities distinct from their colonial past, emphasizing the concept of "the pueblo" as a central element in their political discourse. Bello advocated for an impartial historiography that accurately recorded the unique characteristics of the Chilean pueblo, while Bilbao viewed history as a liberating force that could empower the pueblo and promote social equality. Their differing approaches reflect broader debates about the relationship between history, politics, and the development of national identity in post-colonial societies. [Extracted from the article]