~~~x;;r~s~r;?AA>~ A~obo2 rxli~~~%il~~i~~~il4A x;:?~~~~~~~~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~ li4AAiiiAAAa AAlA A IAAA~~AAaA *~r;:A<1A>A*"" j*~8~i~ii~ LIB~ iieAA ~~~ii A~JAs 4~ aA A S ~ AAAA A ~~~~ ~~~;na ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ A.r T TH R~fY AI~ CSII tlnrI I " AII~~~LI nm~E II O f ~ D~~~m ~ ItJC-IMPI [ al ~~~~~~~~~~~A U~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1< ~~~Jr: AK o /%K) 9 :I::e ,i " 4 ~ i n'~ ~~ -~; I '~1 a I:::::.::::i::;:::: ':: i i:: r~ ~: I ~ ~ ~ Down In Porto Rico BY GEORGE MILTON FOWLES REVISED EDITION NEW YORK YOUNG PEOPLE'S MISSIONARY MOVEMENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA 1910 -~~~~x, Copyright, x906, x9io, by EATON & MAINS TABLE OF CONTENTS FoRtwouD. CHAPTER I. PAYSICAL AND 114tONidAl SiETulCHS. I. Physi Features rL Historical Sketch. T WhoI are the Port Rica? CHAPTER I. TaE HomEs o THE PEOFPLE. I. Dwelings of the Poor. 11 Houses of the Highr Classes CHAPTER. I CI RAnArasTIcsA N CuIsos. I. Physical Charateristies. 11. Mental Charocteriatics. CHAPTER IV. EovAimvo. I. anih Provisions.. der the United States Milit IlL Protestantitrm CHAPTER VI. INDTsIAL AND!) PO LIICAL $ScrAn oM.. Industrial Conditions. H. The Politicl Situation. 239077 iv Table of Contents CHAPTER VII. FURTHER PROGRESS UNDER AMERICAN ADMINISTRATION. I. Education, Morals and Religion, Industrial and Political Conditions. II. President Taft's Message on Porto Rico. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Harbor of San Juan.......................Frontispiece. FACING PAGE Map of Porto Rico............................. 4 Landscape Views................................. 10 Places of Historic Interest......................... 18 Dwellings of the Poor..................... 24 Residences of Higher Classes...................... 34 A Porto Rican Family............................. 42 Disposal of Dead................................. 46 Some Native Types............................... 52 Market Scenes.................................... 58 Various Amusements........................... 62 Types of School Buildings......................... 68 The Lowest Classes................................ 96 Catholic Churches................................. 114 Representatives of Protestantism.................. 122 Industrial Scenes............................ 126 Patriotic Demonstrations.......................... 152 FOREWORD THIS book is iot a history of Porto Rico. It is intended to give a picture of Porto Rican life as it now exists. To do this it has been necessary to fill in an historical background. The prominent figures, however, are the Porto Ricans of to-day. We spent a year on the Island' studying their home life, their personal characteristics, their social, moral, and religious customs, their education, their economic condition, and their efforts at self-government. The writer has enjoyed the hospitality of a number of Porto Rican homes, has formed many warm friendships, and has faith in the ultimate success of the Porto Rican people. We have not written in a spirit of criticism, neither have we attempted to gloss over imperfections. There has been no attempt made to cover up the mistakes and shortcomings of Porto Ricans, Spaniards, or Americans. Our one aim has been to paint the picture true to life. If this work succeeds in giving its readers a clearer view of conditions "Down in Porto Rico," to the end that they may help to usher in a brighter day to these, our fellow-citizens, we shall feel that we have not labored in vain. G. M. F. I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~ CHAPTER I PHYSICAL AND HISTORICAL SKETCHES I. PHYSICAL FEATURES PORTO RICO is the fourth in size and is the farthest eastward of the larger islands of the West Indies, standing at the gateway to the Caribbean Sea. It is situated between 18~ 30' and 17~ 55' north latitude, and in longitude between 68~ and 65~ 10' west from Greenwich. In shape, Porto Rico is almost a rectangle, being about one hundred miles long and about thirty-six miles wide. The surface is exceedingly broken. With the exception of a small strip of level coast u line, the Island consists of a series of hills and valleys. The highest point is in the northeastern part and is called El Yunque. This peak rises about 5,000 feet above the level of the sea. In a general way the range of hills extends from east to west through the center of the Island, but it is so broken that it can scarcely be called a continuous range. The valleys all have rivers which vary from tiny rivulets in the dry season to raging torrents during the rainy season. 2 Down in Porto Rico The number of rivers vary from forty to sixty, according to the judgment of the geographer in distinguishing between brooks and rivers. Much more rain falls on the northern side than on the southern side of the Island. The trade winds from the east bring moisture, which is precipitated on the northern portion of the Island, thus supplying rain nearly the whole year. On the southern side, there are months at a time when no rain falls and agriculture is carried on by means of irrigation. The Island, therefore, has a wet and dry side rather than a wet and dry season. The soil of Porto Rico, as a rule, is very Sol productive, although in many places it has been cultivated so long without fertilization of any kind that it has become quite poor. The north side, owing to the abundance of rain, is well adapted for grazing and for raising crops that require much moisture; while the south side is especially favorable to the growth of sugar cane. One of the anomalous conditions that is observed here is the comparatively small areas that are under cultivation. With an immense population, it would be thought that agriculture would be carried on intensely as in the Physical and Historical Sketches 3 crowded parts of Europe. Such, however, is not the case. Although every foot of land is tillable, there is less than one fourth under actual cultivation. Various reasons are given for this state of affairs. The chief ones advanced are as follows: that much of the land is owned by men who live in Spain; that in Porto Rico there is an exceedingly small middle class; that it is almost impossible for the farmer because of his poverty and the smallness of his wage to buy land to cultivate; that the banks hold heavy mortgages on much of the property; that the roads are so bad as to render transportation difficult and very expensive; and that the markets on the Island are not large enough to demand additional produce, while commerce with other countries is not sufficiently regular or profitable to allow the producer to depend upon it. These objections, however, can all be overcome, and there is no good reason why with such fertility of soil, Porto Rico may not some day be a rich and profitable garden plot for the large American cities of the Atlantic Coast. The coast of Porto Rico has numerous Coast harbors, but none at present that are avail- Lin" able for vessels of deep draught. San Juan, 4 D)own in Porto Rico Guanica and Jobos are landlocked and are considered fine harbors for small vessels. Arecibo, Aguadilla, Mayaguez and Ponce are open roadsteads. These are the principal harbors of Porto Rico, all of which are in need of improvement Neigh- Near the coast of Porto Rico and belongborng ing to it are a number of small islands of Islands more or less importance. The island of Culebra, lying to the eastward, is rocky and barren, but it has a magnificent harbor, capable of sheltering the largest war vessels. It seems to be the intention of the United States naval authorities to use this island as a coaling station and a harbor for vessels. The island of Vieques, situated southeast of Porto Rico, is quite fertile. It is about twenty-five miles long and seven miles wide. The southern portion of the island is given up largely to producing sugar, while in, the northern part the raising of cattle is the chief industry. This little island supports a population of about 7,000 souls. There are also a number of smaller islands that belong to Porto Rico and are situated quite near its coast. At the entrance to San Juan harbor lies Goat Island, which is Physical and HiUstorical Sketches 5 used by the government fotr a leper colony. This has led to the suggestion that the other islands could be used by the government for prisons, asylums, and various public institutions. The climate of Porto Rico is delightful. Cimate There is never any cold weather and very few hot days. The thermometer remains juite regularly between sixty-five and 4ighty-five degrees, but the average change from hottest to coldest is only six degrees. Every day the trade winds blow from the aeast and moderate the temperature. This Isea breeze springs up late in the afternoon and lasts through the evening and into the night. It is delightfully refreshing and enjoyable, but it has a soothing rather than an invigorating effect upon persons. The nights are usually cool and very frequently rain falls. In the higher elevations the temperature is considered much cooler than along the coast, but nowhere is the heat unbearable. According to the United States Weather Bureau report, the lowest temperature of the day is usually between 5 and 6 A. M. it then rises until 10 A. M., when it remains Stationary till about 2 p. M. It then falls 6 Down in Porto Rico gradually until 5 A. M. of the next day. The month of January has the lowest mean temperature, the month of August the highest mean temperature, but May has the highest temperature of the year. At San Juan, the highest temperature recorded since the Weather Bureau was established was 94~ in May, 1903, while the lowest was 65~ in March of the same year. The year is divided into the wet season and the dry season. The former includes the months from April to November, while the latter extends from December to March. The rainfall during the rainy season is 48 to 49 inches, and during the dry season 10 to 11 inches. At no season of the year are there many rainy days. In the afternoon or evenings, without much warning, the rain begins to fall heavily, but the shower is soon over. To the casual observer there is little difference in the weather between the dry season and the wet season. At no time of the year does the rain incommode him to any great extent. Dege Most Americans, coming as they do from Fever farther north, find the climate of Porto Rico enervating. While they acknowledge the charms of this tropical atmosphere, they Physical and Historical Sketches 7 soon long for the invigorating air of the North. Many persons during the time they are becoming acclimated in Porto Rico are subject to attacks of "dengue" fever, which is a sort of malaria known in the South as "break-bone" fever. The experiences of those who are thus afflicted are far from enjoyable, but happily the malady is neither fatal nor of protracted length. Porto Rico, like all other West India Islands, is subject to occasional hurricanes. These are destructive to life and property Hurriand usually work great havoc. The last of cane these storms occurred August 8, 1899. Over two thousand people lost their lives and the destruction to property was enormous. The towns of Ponce, Arroyo, Humacao and Yabucao suffered the most. The coffee plantations in the interior were ruined, the cane crops along the coast were destroyed, many sugar mills were blown down, fruit trees were uprooted, and, as a result of the storm, famine immediately followed. Had it not been for the prompt aid received from the United States, thousands of other lives would have been lost. These hurricanes, however, are not frequent. During the 400 years of the recorded history 8 Down in Porto Rico of Porto Rico, there have been six in the sixteenth century, one in the seventeenth century, two in the eighteenth century, and ten in the nineteenth century.' II. HISTORICAL SKETCHES PORTO Rico was discovered by Columbus on his second voyage, which left Cadiz September 25, 1493. On the sixteenth of November, the southeastern part of Porto Rico was sighted. The fleet sailed along the southern coast, then up the western shore, and on the nineteenth Columbus landed and planted the cross south of the present town of Aguadilla. This spot is now marked by a granite monument erected by the people in 1893 on the 400th anniversary of the discovery of the Island. The granite is in the form of a cross and bears the following inscription: "1493, 19 de Noviembre, 1893." A Cap- In 1505, Vicente Yafiez Pinzon was aptam Ap- pointed Captain of the Island, and was aupo thorized to build a fort there. Pinzon transferred his rights to Martin Garcia de Salazar, while he himself sought larger fields of conquest on the continent. PEonre In 1508, Don Juan Ponce de Leon, who the had been with Columbus when he landed Island at Porto Rico, then known as Boriquen, ob'Acosta's Notes to Fray Inigo Abbad's History of Porto Rico. Physical and Historical Sketches 9 tained permission from Commander Ovando of La Espanola, as Santo Domingo was then called, to take a party on an exploring trip to Boriquen, which (Columbus had named San Juan Bautista. Ponce fitted out a vessel with a few followers and some Indians as guides and interpreters. He called at the island of Mona, which was then inhabited by Indians, and made friends with them. From here he sailed to the island of San Juan. Ponce and his men were well received by the natives, who entered into bonds of friendship with them. Ponce then requested the chief to show him where they found the yellow metal from which they made disks. An Indian pointed out the auriferous sands of several rivers, and Ponce took with him some samples of the gold found there. The exploring expedition continued until it came to the Bay of San Juan. Here Ponce left some of his companions to lay the foundations of a town, while he returned to La Espaffola to report his voyage and test his samples of gold. The gold was not as fine as that found in La Espafiola, but it was still considered valuable. 10 Down in Porto Rico Tsh Ponce soon returned to San Juan, where Sietle- he assisted in building the town of Caparra ment on the bay facing the present site of the capital. This town retained its original site and name until 1521, when by royal order it was transferred to the present situation and the name changed to Porto Rico. Later the whole Island became known as Porto Rico and the town was called San Juan. Diego Ponce was not permitted to remain in Columbus control of San Juan for any great length of time. Diego Columbus claimed the right to rule the island by virtue of the discovery made by his father. In this he was sustained by the King of Spain in 1511, and Ponce delivered his office to Juan Ceron and withdrew to his own residence in Caparra. Indian During the time Ponce was governor of ebeion San Juan, his followers scattered all through the island in search of gold. They compelled the Indians to wash the river sands for gold and proved themselves hard taskmasters. The Indians were further degraded and practically reduced to slavery by a system of "distribution" by which they were assigned to the settlers in various numbers. The Indians resented this, but they still be ciL VillW s Nxlifit>Iy Rxoxxld Nexlr Guiaai mxx A Riv' Scenexxx At~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~: J:lr.Ka Physical and Historical Sketches 11 lieved that their oppressors were supernatural beings, and hence they were afraid to oppose them. They had this illusion dispelled in the following manner: One of their number volunteered to carry a young Spaniard across a stream. When they reached the deepest part, the native threw him into the water and held him down until he drowned. By this act they learned that the Spaniards were subject to death. This was a signal for a general rebellion which continued until the death of the chief Guaybana. Left without a leader, the Indians soon subsided into their former condition of servitude. In 1544, the King of Spain ordered the A Doomed Indians to be set free, but it was too late — the race had perished. The number of Indians in Porto Rico when the Spaniards first arrived has been variously estimated from 16,000 to 600,000. When the Bishop of San Juan, in 1544, reported how many had been set free by royal proclamation, he said that the total number affected, including men, women and children, was sixty. With the rapid extinction of the Indians, Negroes Introduced the output of gold decreased until the settlers in desperation bought negroes oP '2' Down in Porto Rico credit in the hope of discovering new deposits. In 1534 news came of the wonderful riches of Peru and Mexico, and the island was almost depopulated. The governor imposed the death penalty upon any one who should attempt to leave, but, notwithstanding threats and punishments, the inhabitants nearly all succeeded in getting away from the island. Internal From this date until the close of the cenDisorder tury, Porto Rico was in constant turmoil from foes within and without. The few Spaniards wrho remained quarreled about the forms of government. The negro slaves had in many instances withdrawn to the hills and forests from which they made incursions upon their old masters. Attacks In addition to these troubles, the island From Without was in a defenseless condition and was harassed by pirates and privateers. In 1595, the English under Drake made an attack upon the island, but a Spanish fleet sent to convoy some merchantmen carrying gold to the King happened to be in the harbor of San Juan and compelled the English fleet to withdraw. Two years later the English under Lord Cumberland landed at what is now called Santurce and took possession of Physical and Historical Sketches 13 the capital. Dysentery and yellow fever wrought such havoc among the troops that the English commander was obliged to leave the island. In 1625, a Dutch fleet of seventeen vessels appeared in the harbor of San Juan and took the city; but after a siege of one month, in which they failed to take the fort, they sailed away, having lost their general, one of their largest vessels, and four hundred men. During the rest of the seventeenth century, Porto Rico was at war with privateers, freebooters and pirates who infested the West Indies and preyed upon Spanish commerce. England, France and Holland furnished most of these, and as Spain was at war with these nations at home and was being defeated by them, she had not the force to spare for the defence of Porto Rico, and the islanders had to shift for themselves. In 1702, the English attacked Arecibo, but were forced to re-embark. In 1703, they landed in the neighborhood of San German, but were again compelled to return to their vessels. Other attacks were made by them in 1743 near Ponce, and in 1797, upon the capital, but they were not successful. 4 Down in Porto Rico At this late date, the beginning of the nineteenth century, Porto Rico had a population of only 155,426. Owing largely to the smuggling custom then in vogue, these people were unable to pay the expenses of the government, and $100,000 annually had to be sent from Mexico to make up the deficit. In 1815, a royal proclamation was issued Immigra- known as "Regulations for promoting the tion Encouraged population, commerce, industry and agriculture of Puerto Rico." Foreigners were invited to the Island, rights of Spanish citizenship were promised them, land was granted them free of all expenses, they were to be exempt from export duties on their products and from import duties on agricultural implements, negro slaves could be brought into the country without restriction, and free trade between Spain and her possessions was to be in force for fifteen years. This decree attracted many colonists from the French and English Antilles. They came with capital, with slaves, with agricultural knowledge, and their influence in Porto Rico did much to improve economic conditions here. The population was Physical and Historical Sketches 15 further increased by emigrants from Hayti, Santo Domingo, Venezuela and other places where war drove out many of the inhabitants who desired a land of peace. This order marked the beginning of a new New Conlife in Porto Rico. From the discovery of ditions the Island to 1778, immigration was restricted to Spaniards. At that date Catholic workmen of other nations were granted admittance, but in 1815 the doors were opened to all. This was restricted somewhat the following year by requiring those who had not gained a residence to depart from the Island, but great good had already been accomplished by the large influx of foreigners. During the remainder of the nineteenth century there was a steady increase in population and comparatively little war. In 1825, a body of enthusiastic Colom- later bians, under Simon Bolivar, landed near Disturb. anoes Aguadilla with the intention of helping the Porto Ricans to throw off the Spanish rule as they themselves had done. The people, however, did not respond to this army of liberation, and the Spaniards compelled them to withdraw and the enterprise was abandoned. The next disturbance was in 16 Down in Porto Rico 1868. About 800 men met at Lares and set up the Republic of Boriquen. After a few days of enthusiasm, the army of the Republic dwindled to two or three hundred men who were finally put to flight by about a dozen militiamen. Emancipa- An event of importance occurred on tion of Slaves March 22, 1873. This was a decree by the Republican government of Spain giving freedom to all negro slaves in Porto Rico. By this proclamation, 34,000 persons were released from the bonds of slavery. The last fifteen years of Spanish rule in Porto Rico was characterized by many acts of persecution. Men of education who advocated liberal ideas were thrown into prison, or exiled, or tortured. Persons belonging to secret societies whose purposes were supposed to be disloyal were arrested by the civil guard and subjected to severe tortures. Not only were suspected men maimed, but in many instances, they were killed by instruments of torture, In 1896, the government instituted more liberal laws in deference to public opinion of other nations, especially of the United Physical and Historical Sketches 17 States. On November 25, 1897, a royal decree was signed granting autonomy to Porto Rico. Spain, however, was too late in introducing her reforms. The Island was declared in a state of war by the governor-general on April 21, 1898, and on July 25, Porto Rico became a part of the United States. III. WHO ARE TIHE PORTO RICANS? WHEN the Spaniards discovered Porto The AborRico, they found the Island inhabited by a igmes copper-colored race, who, in common with the natives of the other West Indies and of the continent, became known as Indians. While those of Porto Rico resembled the Indians of the continent in the color of the skin, in the prominent cheek bones, and in the long, coarse hair, they differed from them in many respects. The Indian of the continent was a large, raw-boned, warlike savage, who delighted in hunting and fighting. The Indian of Porto Rico was short in stature, stout, peaceful and indolent. He is described as having a flat nose, poor teeth, dull eyes, narrow forehead, and a skull artificially fashioned into the shape of a cone. Most of his time was spent in a hammock 18 Down in Porto Rico made from the bark of trees. Unlike the Indian of the North, he cared little for flesh foods and lived chiefly on vegetables. His place of abode was a hut built of sugar cane which had one opening only. Thus having a permanent hut instead of a movable wigwam, he was more established in his residence than the Indian of the continent. He Mixture of Span- was like him, however, in wearing very little shand clothing, in painting his body, in decorating Blood his hair with feathers, in belonging to a tribe whose ruler was called the chief. These were the people that Ponce found when he came to explore the Island in 1508. Spanish blood began to mingle with Indian blood from the very first. Ponce won the friendship of the powerful chief Guaybana, and in order to strengthen this bond, he married the sister of the chief. His example was followed by many other Spaniards in those early days, since there were few Spanish women in Porto Rico for many years Negro and after this event. As a result, a new race Indian appeared, ethnologically known as Mestizos, the children of Spanish men and Indian women. In 1513, negro slavery was authorized and the slaves introduced were chiefly males. PLXcACES OF HslISTORIC INTEREST El. Mom i at Saitn ]Jtlla lkiliis of (,:r; rL: t L. ~ -r~ ~ I ~ iI;:% I::" r Industrial and Political Situation 127 often relieved by the use of rum or tobacco, and the result of such a mode of life is now discernible in the weak and anaemic condition of great numbers of the poor. 1 The census of 1899 shows that out of a Occupation of Porto Rico population of about half a million of persons of working age, 198,761 were engaged in agriculture, mining and fishing. It is estimated that less than 1,000 were engaged in the two latter classes, leaving about 197,761 agriculturists. There were 64,819 nonagriculturist laborers; 26,515 engaged in manufacturing and trades; 24,076 in commerce and transportation; and 2,194 in the profession class. There were unemployed 183,635-one-third of whom were men and two thirds women. These figures show that about 63 per cent of the persons employed in any regular pursuit were agriculturists. The people depended almost wholly upon the soil for their support. Every portion of the Island is capable of being cultivated from the seashore to the tops of the hills. Notwithstanding this favorable natural condition, out of a total area of 2 2,347,520 acres, only 464,361 acres, or 20 per cent, are I Census 1899 2 See Governor's Report, page 38, 1901 128 Down in Porto Rico under cultivation. Poor roads, an absent or unsympathetic landlord class, and a pov. erty-stricken peasant class are chiefly responsible for the existence of this unfor. tunate agricultural condition. Poor The Commissioner of Interior in his re, Roads port to the Governor in 1901 states that the principal cause of these conditions is due to the poor roads. He says: 1 "I lack command of language to express concisely and within the scope of this report the importance of good roads and bridges to the future development of the material interests of the Island, the prosperity and happiness of the people. Spanish officials promised a great deal and planned much, but executed very little. As a result, the desire of the wealthy and favored few to keep the masses poor and dependent, that the price of labor might ever be low, was surely accomplished. "An observant American coming to Porto Rico and visiting the interior, revels in admiration of the magnificent scenery, and is duly impressed by evidences of the exuberant fertility of the soil and its adaptability 1 See Governor's Report, 1901, page 315 Industrial and Political Situation 129 to the cultivation of all sorts of tropical products. He meets the people by the way, and if at first he wonders why, amidst such surroundings, so many people should appear to be victims of hunger and starvation, he learns without asking that the chief cause for the non-employment of labor, for abandoned or scantily cultivated farms and untouched areas of land presenting a jungle of trees, plants and vines in mute testimony of its richness, lies in the impossibility of reaching a market with the products of the soil." Poor roads, however, do not give a full explanation. 1 With all the untilled acres of fertile land, the staple food of the people, rice, which can be raised in Porto Rico, was the chief article of import. In 1897 about 78,000,000 pounds of rice were imported into this Island. This had to be carried into the interior over roads that were considered too bad to bring products to market. While poor roads contributed to the deplorable economic condition, the chief cause, in our judgment, is found in the fact that there was scarcely any middle class. The See Estadistica General, 1897 130 Down in Porto Rico population consisted of wealthy land-owners and the dependent poverty-stricken laborers who were kept down by those in power. Americans Such were the class distinctions and the Welcomed unfavorable industrial conditions that existed in Porto Rico when Spanish rule, which had lasted for over four centuries, came to an end and the American Republic assumed control. The Americans were gladly welcomed by the Porto Ricans because they represented liberty, prosperity and opportunity. This feeling of cordiality in large measure has been supplanted by one of discontent or open hostility. What has caused this change? The United States has done much for this people, educationally and morally, which we have already discussed in previous chapters. What she has done politically, we shall take up later on. At this point, we shall consider the question, What has been the result of American rule upon the industrial conditions? The Coffee The three great crops of the Island are Trade coffee, tobacco, and sugar. 1 In 1897, the value of the coffee exported was 12,222,600 pesos. Spain received almost one third of 1 See Estadistica General 1897 Industrial and Political Situation 131 this amount, or a value of 3,563,921 pesos. Other European countries bought the remainder with the exception of about one five-hundredth part, valued at 24,957 pesos, which was received by the United States. The important coffee market for Porto Rico was Spain, the United States buying so little Porto Rican coffee that it need scarcely be considered. Shortly after Spain relinquished her pos- Coffee Market session of Porto Rico, she placed a tariff on Lost coffee from the Island, which was not quite prohibitive, but which was disastrous to the coffee industry. Prices paid for coffee in Porto Rico were so low that the planters could scarcely afford to market the berries. This worked great hardship among the laborers, many of whom were thrown out of employment, and large numbers could hardly earn enough money to keep them from starving. 1 The value of the coffee exported in 1901 was $3,195,662 as against an average value of annual shipment from 1892 to 1896 of $10,872,000. In addition to the distress caused by the coffee loss of their market, the coffee planters suf- Crops fered a great disaster through the hurri1 Governor's Report, 1903, page 34 132 Down in Porto Rico cane of 1899. The storm swept over the Island with such fury that coffee trees were destroyed, buildings were blown down, much of the soil on the coffee plantations was washed down into the valleys, and the coffee industry was paralyzed. Many of the planters had mortgaged their crops and were unable to secure more money to put their farms in repair. This resulted in great additions to the already large army of the unemployed. Because of these two great blows to the coffee industry, economic conditions have been much depressed throughout the Island. It is true that these conditions have been much relieved by the increased activity in the sugar industry, but the area of the canefields is very limited compared with that devoted to the growing of coffee. In 1897, the value of the sugar exported was over $4,000,000, while in 1902-3, the value had increased to over $7,500,000. This has helped to counteract the financial distress caused by the disasters to the coffee crop. There has also been a considerable amount of American money invested in fruit farms. It is too early to state whether these ventures will prove successful or not, since time Industrial and Political Situation 133 enough has not yet elapsed to produce fruitbearing trees. If fruit farms are scientific. ally cultivated in Porto Rico, and adequate transportation facilities are afforded, there seems to be no reason why this tropical Island lying so near to the New York market should not become rich as a producer of tropical fruits and vegetables. There has been quite an increase in the amount of tobacco grown and exported since the American occupation. This crop is continually enlarging and adding to the wealth of the Island. Normal commercial conditions, however, have not yet been reached. This is shown by comparison of the value of imports and exports in different years. 1 In 1897, the exports amounted to $18,574,678, and the imports to $17,858,063, giving a trade balance of $716,615 in favor of Porto Rico. Every year after this until 1903, the trade balance was against her. In 1903, the value of imports was $14,179,575, and the value of exports $14,866,644, giving for the first time under American rule a balance of trade in favor of the Island. Even with this very great improvement over the other years of American occupation, it will be noticed I Governor's Report 1903, page 22 1]34 )Down in Porto Rico that both imports and exports fall short more than three and a half million dollars apiece of what they were for the last year that Spain ruled. If, in the prosperous year of 1897, there were nearly 200,000 persons unemployed, it can readily be seen that this number was greatly augmented during these years of hard times. It is, therefore, scarcely to be wondered at that these persons blame the ruling power for the cause of their poverty and their distress. This is only human nature and what we could logically expect in any country. It is not just to dismiss the complaints and the grievances of the Porto Ricans by calling them ingrates and incapable of appreciating what has been (lone for them. The cause of the strong anti-American feeling that is found among some classes of Porto Ricans is due very largely to economic conditions which would influence the people of any other land in much the same way. On the other hand, we must not forget that the United States has done much to relieve these unfortunate conditions. In the Organic Act approved April 12, 1900, it was provided 1 "That the duties and taxes colI Organic Act, Section 4 Industrial and Political Situation 135 lected in Porto Rico in pursuance of this Act, less the cost of collecting the same, and the gross amount of all collections of duties and taxes in the United States upon articles of merchandise coming from Porto Rico, shall not be covered into the general fund of the Treasury, but shall be held as a separate fund, and shall be placed at the disposal of the President to be used for the government and benefit of Porto Rico." Congress voted $2,000,000 for the refunding of the duties paid from 1898 to this date. Thus the Government provided that cus- useot toms receipts which are used in the United thisGift States for Federal purposes only, should in this case be used for local needs. The first appropriation was the sum of 1 $200,000 which was paid to the treasurer of Porto Rico, for the exclusive use of the Department of Education for school extension in Porto Rico. This has been added to until in 1904, the amount used in building schoolhouses was over half a million dollars.2 The rest of this fund was devoted chiefly to the building of good roads. This gift from the national treasury to the treasury of Porto Rico ought to be, and no doubt is, duly appreciated. The Commissioner of Interior - Governor's Report, 1904, paige 33 2 Governor's Report, 1901, pnge 279 136 Down in Porto Rico stated that good roads were an absolute necessity to the prosperity of the Island. The Commissioner of Education pointed out the fact that Spain only gave one school building in Porto Rico to the American Government, and he emphasized the immediate need of constructing schoolhouses. The liberality of the Federal Government has made possible the construction of more than twice as many miles of good roads as Spain built during four hundred years of occupancy. It has also resulted in the dotting of the whole Island with schoolhouses where the children can be comfortably seated and be given an American public school education. Continued Nor has the United States Government avors been satisfied with extending this much assistance. She has provided that all the regular customs receipts of Porto Rico shall be applied annually for the benefit of the Islanders. This is a favor that has not been granted to any other part of the United States. In this respect Porto Rico has been most kindly considered by the National Government. A Harmful In April 1900, Congress, with the best of Restriction motives provided for the protection of the Industrial and Political Situation 137 Porto Ricans from greeJy corporations. It was thought that the land of Porto Rico should be owned by her own people and not by large land companies. It was, therefcre, enacted that no corporation should control more than 500 acres of land, and any person owning a share in one agricultural corporation was prohibited from owning any stock of another corporation engaged in agriculture. Instead of a blessing, this has proved a curse to the Island. Porto Ricans were too poor to develop the land themselves, and what was needed most was foreign capital. But capital was unwilling to go to Porto Rico under these restrictions. To profitably run a sugar plantation and mill from 5,000 acres to 20,000 acres are needed. Large tracts of land are also needed for tobacco, coffee and fruit farms. American capital has been invested in some of these enterprises, but they have had to violate the spirit, if not the letter, of this prohibitive law. In the light of its results, it is eminently desirable that this harmful restriction should at once be removed. Porto Rico has made several requests of Requests the United States that have not been not ranted 138 ' Down in Porto Rico granted, but this is not due to want of interest, or lack of desire to improve the economic condition of Porto Rico, but because the petitions were not in accord with the policy of the Government. For example, to help the coffee growers, two plans were proposed. One was to have the United States place a tariff on coffee imported from foreign countries. This would tax all coffee drinkers in the nation for the sake of providing a market for the coffee of Porto Rico, Hawaii and the Philippines, which produce but a small percentage of the total amount imported into the United States. The other proposal was for the Federal Government to pay a bounty on coffee raised in Porto Rico. Neither of these propositions commended themselves to the people of the United States and no special help has been afforded the coffee planters. What would seem to be a saner solution of this problem would be the cultivation of the coffee plantations according to modern methods so that the output could be largely increased and the planter be placed in a position where he could compete in the different coffee markets of the world. Agricultural Loan Another movement that was very popu Industrial and Political Situation 139 lar among the Porto Ricans was the effort to secure a large insular loan for the promotion of agriculture. This loan was to be made directly by Congress or by private parties with the consent of Congress. The movement failed because the Insular Council and the House of Delegates could not agree upon a plan for the distribution of the funds in case they could be secured. That Porto Rico needs help in secur- AProblem ing better economic conditions is apparent to all who have studied this question. How to reader assistance, and at the same time make the people more self-reliant, is a problem that has not yet been solved. In the first place, it would be well if the Federal Government would remove the restrictions against the large investment of capital, then to render increased assistance in providing adequate school facilities for all the children of school age. In a few years Porto Rico ought to have an educated, intelligent population abundantly able to work out their own problems and to dignify labor which is now regarded as belonging to the peon class. It is our conviction that what Porto Rico needs more than any other one thing in improving her economic condition 140 Down in Porto Rico is a large class of intelligent workingmen who are not averse to earnest, diligent labor. II. THE POLITICAL SITUATION Privileges DURING the centuries of Spanish rule, Granted by the Spanish Porto Ricans had very little opportunity for overnment the exercise of their political tendencies. Not until 1870 were they given the specific right of suffrage, and then it was so limited that a very few, about 20,000, were permitted to vote for provincial deputies and municipal councilors, who were practically nominated by the Crown. In 1897, owing, no doubt, to the pressure that was being applied by the United States to Spain in the interests of Cuba, an autonomical form of government was granted to Porto Rico. This extended the franchise to male Spaniards over twenty-five years of age who had resided in the municipality for two years-criminals and bankrupts excepted. The voting population then numbered about 150,000. The only election under this law was held on March 27, 1898. This was said to have been manipulated by Sagasta, the Prime Minister, so that all those elected were his nominees. This so Industrial and Political Situation 141 called self-government had just been started when the United States army of occupation took charge of the Island. 1 The military government provided the Amerioan following qualifications of electors: nitary 1. He must be a bona fide male resident, over twenty-one years of age, and must have resided in Porto Rico for two years and in the municipality for six months previous to the election. Or he must be a citizen or subject of a foreign country, who, fulfilling the requirements stated above as to sex, age and residence in the municipality, has resided five years in Porto Rico, and has, under oath, renounced his foreign allegiance and declared his intention to become a citizen of the United States. 2. He must be a taxpayer of record, who, subsequent to July 11, 1898, and previous to October 12, 1899, paid at least $1 of some kind of regular tax for the support of the Government, not including payments for licenses, fees, fines, duties, imports, and other temporary charges; taxes paid on the property of a wife, minor child, or member of a firm or corporation to qualify the respective husband, father or partner as an 1 See Military Government Porto Rico 142 Down in Porto Rico eligible taxpayer. Or he must be able to read and write some language. The elections held under the military government were the first in Porto Rico where there was an honest effort to secure just returns. Where irregularities occurred, elections were repeated. Where there were attempts at fraud, a strict investigation was made, and in one case at least a criminal prosecution followed. Partisan spirit was intensely bitter during the elections and has remained so ever since. A Warning The political leaders were intent upon securing selfish ends and only the strong hand of the Government prevented deadly riots. The result of the voting showed that 51,650 votes were cast. In commenting upon the qualifications-of voters in Porto Rico, General Davis says: 1 "It seems absolutely essential that the franchise in Porto Rico be restricted on some basis that shall prevent the political control from passing into the hands of the vast horde of the ignorant, who have no conception of the duties of citizenship, a condition that is recognized and admitted by the most intelligent and patriotic Porto Ricans.... If universal I Military Government Porto Rico, page 114 Industrial and Political Situation 143 or manhood suffrage be given to the Porto Ricans, bad results are almost sure to follow. The vast majority of the people are no more fit to take part in self-government than are our reservation Indians, from whom the suffrage is withheld unless they pay taxes. They certainly are far inferior in the social, intellectual and industrial scale to the Chinese, who, for very good reasons, are forbidden to land on our shores. The ignorant masses will be manipulated and controlled and corrupted by the political bosses, just as they were accustomed to be by their former masters. They will be subservient to their new masters, and whatever party can sway and dictate to the masses will control their votes." Notwithstanding this word of warning, Provisionsof the Civil the law was so constructed that at the first Government election under the civil government there was practically universal suffrage. It reads as follows: 1 "Any male citizen over the age of twenty-one years who, on the day of registration, produces to the Board of Registry, a tax receipt showing the payment of any kind of taxes for the last six months of the year in which the election is held." 'Military Government Porto Rico, Page 114 144 Down in Porto Rico All that was necessary was a receipt showing payment of some kind of taxes within six months from the day of registration. The lowest tax is three cents for the privilege of depositing a basket of vegetables on the floor of the market place and selling them. A receipt for three cents entitles the holder to the right of suffrage. The result was a registry list of 158,924 voters. Two Politial Immediately after the American occupaParties tion, the people of Porto Rico divided themselves into two parties-the Republican and the Federal. There was very little difference in the principles announced in their platforms. They were alike in declaring their loyalty to the United States, in desiring a Territorial Government, and at an early date, Statehool. Both declared themselves to be in favor of universal suffrage, free schools, American money, free trade with the United States, and in hearty sympathy with the American judicial system. In addition to these statements, the Federals advocated local autonomy, the granting of larger powers to the city councils, the chartering of banks, and claimed to be the champion of the laboring man. The Republicans advocated free speech Industrial and Political Situation 145 and a free press, the American system of taxation, and the teaching of English in the public schools. The Republicans, up to 1904, generally supported the American administration, while the Federals more or less actively opposed it. The most intense feeling is indulged in Bitter by the members of the different parties. ee Men of one party frequently will not speak to those of the other. The newspapers use the most intemperate language in regard to their political opponents. Hatreds are intense and lead to riots. Just before the November elections in 1900 a number of clashes occurred which resulted in bloodshed. In San Juan, mob law prevailed for several days. A printing press was destroyed, hundreds of shots were fired, the police were helpless, and the city was at the mercy of the rioters. When the Federals realized that they would be defeated at the polls, they issued orders for all Federals to refrain from voting. The very thing that General Davis had predicted had already come to pass. The ignorant, unthinking masses followed blindly the leadership of a demagogue without giving a thought to 146 Down in Porto Rico principles of government or to the good of the Island. In 1902, the Federalists were in the field again, and ante-election hatreds were stirred up. Intense excitement prevailed, riots broke out, and blood flowed. As the Republicans had supported the Government and had the majority of votes, they were given a majority of the election officers. It is claimed that there was considerable fraud and some intimidation on the part of the Republicans. However that may be, the returns showed that five of the seven legislative districts had gone Republican, and this fact increased the animosity of the party which had been defeated. The excitable nature and the uncompromising temperament of Latin Americans make it difficult for them to learn the lesson of government by majority rule. Change of In the spring of 1904, the leader of the y es Federal party, who then lived in New York, met the representatives of his party and advised them to disband and form a new patriotic organization that would refrain from voting and would seek only the good of Porto Rico. This advice was followed, the Federal party was dissolved, and a non Industrial and Political Situation 147 voting Union party was organized. This created great dissatisfaction among the former Federals, and before the time of the election, the Union party had a ticket in the field and five of the seven districts returned Union majorities. On July 4th preceding the 1904 elections, Governor a new Governor was inaugurated. Each Winthrop party sought the favor of the new executive. It soon became rumored that he was inclined to listen to the leaders of the Union party. Governor Winthrop's friends claimed that he was impartial and decided questions without any partisan bias. In the November elections, the Insular Government took measures to prevent disorders and fraud at the polls. The Unionists claim that this secured an honest election which resulted in victory for their party. The Republicans charge the Government with using its influence in favor of their opponents and thus caused a panic among the large number of the peon class that had been accustomed to vote the Republican ticket. Partially as a result of this election, the Republican party is now strongly against the government, and vies with its rival in trying to secure favor among the 148 Down in Porto Rico voters by means of bitter denunciations of the American rulers. Anti. At the present time, therefore, we find Americanism the great majority of the people of Porto Rico either dissatisfied with the American Government or openly hostile to it. In a preceding chapter, we pointed out that the chief cause of discontent is found in the economic conditions that have obtained during American rule. The natural way for the expression of industrial discontent is through political channels. It is so in our own States. If a panic occurs during a Republican administration, that party is held responsible for it in the minds of the great masses of the people. Or if there is a financial depression during a Democratic administration, the people call the Democrats to account for it. During the seven years of American rule in Porto Rico, the people have been subjected to hard times. It is only natural that they should find fault with the Government, and then, when relief failed to come, to assume a hostile attitude toward it. The probabilities are that if Porto Rico had enjoyed favorable industrial conditions, there would have been little fault found with the political management of Insular affairs. It is well Industriall and Political; Sittuation 149 to keep this in mind as we study the political grievances of the people. The Insular Government is vested in a Present House of Delegates elected by the people, Government an Executive Council of eleven members appointed by the President of the United States, and the Governor, who is also appointed by the President. Five of the members of the Executive Council are Porto Ricans. The other six are Americans, who are the heads of Government departments. They are the Secretary, Attorney General, Treasurer, Auditor, Commissioner of Interior, and Commissioner of Education. At first this form of government seemed SelffGovernsatisfactory to the Porto Ricans. To give ment Desire to people who had exercised but little power in self-government the entire lower House and five of the eleven members of the upper House seemed a liberal concession on the part of Congress. But as the years have gone, there has developed a strong feeling that greater legislative power should be given to the people of the Island. Perhaps this was best expressed in the Convention of Municipal Delegates that met in San Juan, July 25, 1905. They petitioned that the executive and legislative functions of 150 Down in Porto Rico the Government be separated. That is, that the heads of departments should not be members of the upper House. They requested that the members of the upper House as well as the lower House be elected by the people, and the heads of departments be appointed by the Governor with the approval of the upper House. American To some Americans who are all sympathy Encourage. ment with immediate self-government, these requests seem reasonable, and they urge that they be granted. It ought not to be forgotten that many felt the same way toward the emancipated slaves at the close of the Civil War. Universal negro suffrage followed and the disastrous results both to black and white men of the South is a matter of history. We have already made the mistake in Porto Rico of putting the ballot into the hands of one hundred thousand men who can neither read nor write and who know no more about self-government than the ex-slave did at the close of the Civil War. Now, shall we turn over the entire legislature of the Island to people who have had so little instruction or experience in American statesmanship? It is believed by many who have studied Industrial and Political Situation 151 the problem of self-government for Porto Rico that already more power has been given the people than they are prepared to exercise wisely. It was a great mistake to bestow the right of suffrage upon perhaps two thirds of the voters of this Island, because of their ignorance and their utter inability to understand the issues before the people. To have two such votes for every intelligent vote is a condition that is ominous to the honest administration of any government. Governor Hunt who was sometimes charged with being too conciliatory in his attitude toward the Porto Ricans and of having ultra-optimistic views of their progress in self-government, has this to say: 1 "It is probable that a majority of all the people want Territorial Government. But those of us who have participated in affairs for several years unanimously believe that the present form of government ought not to be changed now. It is liberal in its extension of political autonomy and most generous in its financial benefits. The creation of a house of delegates conferred vast power upon the people, considering their limited I Report of Governor of Porto Rico, 1903, page 13 152 Down in Porto Rico government in the past. It is perhaps the severest test to which they are being put, and the legislative sessions will be anxious times for years to come." Advioe ot During the first few sessions of the legise lature there was a desire to be directed somewhat by the Governor and the Executive Council. Now the delegates seem to feel that they know better than any one else what laws should be passed. If they are not able to carry their bills through the Executive Council, they sulk and refuse to attend to any further business. This was strikingly demonstrated in the special session held in 1904. The previous session had passed an agricultural loan bill and satisfactory arrangements were made in the United States for floating the loan. The Governor then called a special session to complete negotiations for the loan and to determine what disposition should be made of the money. The House of Delegates were determined that a large part of it should be loaned to the farmers to pay off their mortgages. The Executive Council would not agree to this scheme of the government going into a mortgage business, and refused to authorize the loan for that purpose The P ATRITom EMONSTRATONS SfIlJPar J auly C e(lbrtiul ~ublic Scbool Pandio _I Industrial and Political Situation 153 House of Delegates then decided to do no further business. The Governor called the attention of the House to a clerical error by which the Government was losing a large sum annually on the internal revenue tax. The previous sessions had imposed a tax of a certain sum per hundred cigars. In copying, an extra cipher had been added by the clerk making it read per thousand. Notwithstanding the fact that the delegates knew that it was a clerical error and would mean a large loss for the Insular Government, because of their anger at the Execut.ve Council, they would not correct the mistake. It was not until the session was almost ready to adjourn that some of the leaders took the matter up and had it adjusted by a majority of one vote. Should men capable of such action as this have the full responsibility of the government of one million souls placed in their hands at once? It is hoped by many of Porto Rico's friends that the American Government will not place more power in the hands of the native politicians until they show favorable signs of being able to administer it wisely. Another political grievance of the Island- Amerioan ers is the decision of the UnCited State nship ers is the decision of the United States 154 Down in Porto Rico Court that Porto licans are not American citizens. They have lost their citizenship in Spain, they are not an independent nation, now they learn that they are not citizens of the United States. They belong to no country, they are waifs among the nations of the world. They cannot be naturalized because they are not foreigners. They cannot be admitted to the privileges of American citizens, for they are neither native-born nor adopted Americans. Is it any wonder that this wounds the pride of the Porto Rican and gives rise to hard feelings against a Government that permits such unjust discrimination? Congress should take immediate action in this matter and give to Porto Ricans their just rights-American citizenship without any restrictions. americans i Another cause of political discontent is Porto Rio due to the personnel of some of the American officials. Without exception all the Governors, both military and civil, have been men of high moral standing who had the best interests of Porto Rico at heart. Some criticisms have been made in regard to policies pursued, but the motives were always of the best and due credit has been given to the integrity of the Executive. Industrial and''Political Situation 155 With but few exceptions, the heads of the departments have also been men who fairly represented "American official life. In several instances, Commissioners were accused of having personal interests in public contracts, but, as a rule, there has been remarkable freedom from charges of graft. There have been some officials, however, who have disgraced both themselves and their country. An American judge was said to have been in close relationship to one of the worst saloons and gambling dens on the Island. Several high officials in the Army and Navy were implicated in smuggling liquor from St. Thomas. An officer of the Marine Corps got drunk and almost raised a riot in the streets of San Juan. An officer of the Army was found in a disreputable part of the city where he was run over by a street car, presumably while he was under the influence of liquor. A special United States Commissioner was notoriously given to drink. One of the men in high civil position is said to be partially under the influence of liquor a large part of his time. An employee in the treasury department embezzled the funds of a prominent social club. One of the latest ap 156 Down in Porto Rico pointees to the head of a department got drunk on the boat going down, continued in that condition for quite a while after his arrival, and after remaining there for several weeks much of which time he was under the influence of liquor, he was recalled. These are a few examples of men who should have represented our government, deliberately misrepresenting it. If you add to this list the drunkenness of the sailors, the financial sharks and dishonest tradesmen, the scum of society, both men and women, that follow in the wake of an army and do not always leave with it, you can see why the best class of Porto Ricans do not have an exalted opinion of Americans and are not particularly anxious to have them as teachers in self-government. Taxation Another cause of political discontent is due to the system of taxation. Under Spanish law taxes were levied upon the revenue. Under American law, it is levied upon the property. Many abuses and misunderstandings have crept in during this change. Persons who never paid taxes before remonstrate against doing so now. Very few will question, however, the wisdom of this change. When once the system is under Industrial and Political Situation 157 stood and justly put into execution, this source of friction will disappear. There are a number of minor difficulties in the way of a people accustomed to Spanish life and mode of operation, adjusting themselves to American standards. These do not need to be taken up in detail. They will disappear of themselves as a closer relationship is formed between Porto Ricans and Americans. We, therefore, reaffirm our believe that, while some political matters need immediate adjustment, the antiAmerican sentiment in Porto Rico is due to industrial rather than political causes. Once the economic conditions of the Island become prosperous, the political troubles will rapidly disappear. SUMMARY We believe that Porto Rico is on the highway to ultimate success in her efforts to become a worthy member of the sisterhood of States. In view of the many discouraging conditions that have been set forth, it perhaps would be well for us to state the basis of this belief. 1. The Public School. The establishment of the American public school system forms a basis for an intel 158 Down in Porto Rico ligent citizenship. Already 60,000 children are annually receiving a common school education. There are in round numbers 1,200 teachers, 120 of whom are Americans, and all the Porto Rican teachers have some knowledge of English. This means that the rising generation will be able to read and think for themselves. It means also that, as these boys and girls become acquainted with American institutions and American ideals, the present antagonisms and misunderstandings will rapidly disappear. The common schools in Porto Rico as in other parts of our nation will prove a strong force in cultivating patriotism and loyalty to our Republican form of government. 2. Separation of Church and State. The union of Church and State has ever proved disastrous to the nations which have enforced such a law. Porto Rico is released from ecclesiastical bondage. Religious beliefs can now be accepted or rejected as individuals wish. Freedom of worship, and its natural companions, freedom of speech and freedom of the press, are proving great boons for the development of sturdy and independent characters. This is one of Porto Rico's great needs. After four centuries of paternalism both in Church and State, Porto Ricans are just beginning to feel Industrial and Political Situation 159 "that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Although many abuse this newly acquired liberty, there is no doubt but that there are rapidly developing strong independent thinkers in matters sacred and secular. 3. Home life. The great impetus that has been given to the establishment of legal homes and the development of home life is already producing very satisfactory results. The children are better clad, the little shacks are having furniture placed in them, books and papers are finding their way into these homes of the lowly, and there is a noticeable improvement in the morals of the people. As the home is the unit of national or community life, if its standard be raised, then that of the whole community is elevated. This is what is taking place in all parts of Porto Rico. The rapidly rising moral tone of family life augurs well for the future of this people. 4. Economic Conditions. The constantly increasing trade relations with other parts of the United States is 160 Down in Porto Rico helping to overcome the present unfortunate industrial affairs of the Island and will eventually bring to Porto Rico its share of prosperity. A comparison of imports and exports between the year 1898 and 1904 shows the increase in these trade relations. In 1898 our imports from Porto Rico amounted to $2,382,170; in 1904, they were $12,963,483, a gain of over ten and one half millions of dollars. In 1898, we sold them $1,404,004, while in 1904, the amount was $11,934,978, another gain of more than ten and a half millions of dollars. In these facts there is hope. Quite a large sum of American money has already been invested in Porto Rico, and if Congress repeals the pernicious anti-monopoly law, there will undoubtedly be a much larger investment of American capital in the Island. The injury wrought by the change of currency is now largely a thing of the past. The system of taxation is rapidly becoming a just and equitable reality. The wages of workingmen are in the ascendency, and there is every reason to believe that, with a little aid from Congress, hard times will soon disappear from Porto Rico. Industrial and Political Situation 161 5. Nobility of labor. Another of the hopeful signs is the change of sentiment toward manual labor. Under the old regime, it was considered beneath the dignity of respectable persons to do any kind of manual labor-that was reserved for servants and peons. This was the old Spanish idea of nobility, and it will take time and education to eradicate it. There are some agencies at work that are already having an influence upon public opinion. Chief among these, perhaps, are the industrial schools that have been established in connection with the public school system. In these institutions the boys are taught how to use tools. While not claiming to make trained mechanics of these boys, they are given a taste of this kind of work, and with the instruction they here receive, they can soon become skilled workmen. The girls are taught domestic science, sewing and other kindred occupations. In addition to these industrial schools, the agricultural school at Rio Piedras trains the boys in scientific farming. The results of the teaching of this school, and the nineteen other agricultural schools of the rural dis 162 Down in Porto Rico tricts, will undoubtedly help in the future development of this fertile Island. The normal school at Rio Piedras is also doing an excellent work in training both young men and young women to teach the schools of the Island according to the best methods now in use in other parts of the United States. With these agencies preparing the boys and girls for useful citizenship, is there not good reason to believe in the future of Porto Rico? 6. Politics. Politics will always be a disturbing element among people of the Porto Rican temperament. However, as they gain confidence in the ballot as a means of deciding their differences of opinions, as they insist upon the integrity of the judiciary, as they learn to use wisely the power that is in their own hands, there is no reason for grave fears from this source. The present political unrest is due largely to economic conditions, and in part to the anomalous position of Porto Ricans in the matter of citizenship. As these difficulties are adjusted, a much better spirit is sure to prevail. We believe that it will be but a con Industrial and Political Situation 163 paratively short time,-perhaps in this generation,-until Porto Rico shall demonstrate her fitness for self-government and shall take her place among the other States of this Nation. Our self-imposed task of portraying the Porto Rico of to-day is finished. We have given the results of careful investigation and first-hand information. We have tried to keep our promise to give facts as we found them. Some errors may have been recorded, but an earnest effort has been made to be accurate. We send out this book with the hope that it may help its readers to a clearer conception of present conditions in our new Island possession, and that it may assist in developing a deeper sympathy for a people struggling upward in a new life. CHAPTER VII FURTHER PROGRESS UNDER AMERICAN ADMINISTRATION DURING the four years that have elapsed since the preceding chapters were written, substantial progress has been made in Porto Rico in the political, educational, moral, and industrial life of the people. Political The two chief political parties are still Parties the Union and the Republican, but there are now several smaller organizations that take part in the elections. The general policies of the two major parties remain unchanged, the Union being considered the Anti-American and the Republican the American party. The Union has been in control since 1904. Governor Post, who succeeded Governor Winthrop, was believed to be favorable to the Union party. This won for him the enmity of the Republican leaders, who would naturally have been his supporters. The Union leaders worked in harmony with the governor only so long as he granted their demands. When he refused to give all they asked it brought about deadlocks, the 164 Further Progress 165 last one of which, in the spring of 1909, was so serious as to call for a special message to Congress from the President of the United States. This message is quite an illuminating document as to what the United States has done for Porto Rico, and may be found at the close of this chapter. Porto Ricans have not yet been granted American citizenship, although they persistently appeal for it, and President Roosevelt strongly urged it in one of his last messages to Congress. There are Americans still holding promi- Undesirable nent government positions in Porto Rico mericans who are severely criticised for their political policies and their private lives. This criticism comes not only from the natives but from the better class of Americans living on the island. It is to be regretted that our representatives are not always men of clean and sober lives. Education in Porto Rico has made rapid Public Shools strides every year since the establishment of the American public school system. In our chapter on education there is a brief review of the progress made from 1899 to 1904. It is interesting to compare the figures of 1904 with those of 1909. In 1904 there were 1,113 166 Down in Porto Rico common schools, with an enrollment of 61,168, and an average daily attendance of 41,798. In 1909 there were 1,912 common schools, with an enrollment of 114,367, and an average daily attendance of 72,776.1 The number of schools taught wholly in English has increased from a few graded schools in 1904 to a total of 429 in 1909. The Commissioner of Education gives a r6sum6 of the progress made in the public schools of Porto Rico during the years 1908 and 1909, which appears at the close of this chapter. Religious activity under American protection has spread to all parts of the island. TheCatholio The Catholic Church, aroused by the work Church of Protestant missionaries, has been adjusting itself to the new conditions. Unworthy priests have been removed, charitable institutions are better managed, the spiritual interests of the communicants are receiving more care, and in many respects the Catholic Church is greatly improved over what it was during the Spanish regime. Protestantism Protestantism has been an aggressive force in Porto Rico ever since the island came into the possession of the United States. During the last four years religious services 'Commissioner's Leaflet, 1909. Further Progress 167 have been increased in number until they have been established in every village. Schools have been opened where the government was unable to provide them, orphanages and hospitals minister to physical needs, Sunday schools are training young people to higher standards of morality, and the verdict of thousands of Porto Ricans is that Protestantism has been and is a great uplifting power among the people. Industrial conditions have been steadilycommerce improving, as the following comparisons will show: the total imports had increased from $9,366,230 in 1901 to $25,825,665 in 1908; in the same period the exports had risen from $8,583,967 to $30,644,490; the value of sugar exported had increased from $4,715,611 in 1901 to $18,690,504 in 1908; of tobacco, from $681,642 to $5,410,195; coffee, from $118,694 to $4,304,609; citrus fruits, from $84,475 to $675,255. The government has persistently pushed Roads forward the construction of good roads. The Spanish built 276.5 kilometers of macadam roads during their entire period of rulership in Porto Rico. In the first ten years of American domination, 613.7 kilometers were built. Many substantial bridges have been 168 Down in Porto Rico constructed also, and rich agricultural sections that were formerly inaccessible have been opened to the markets. Publi Works During the years of 1908 and 1909 irrigation has been undertaken by the government on the southern side of the island and large tracts of arid land have been changed into fertile fields. Other public works deserve special mention, such as the extension of the railroad and trolley systems, the dredging of San Juan harbor, the construction of telephone lines, and the erection of many public buildings. There has been a constant improvement in practically all lines of industrial activity. The friends of Porto Rico note with pleasure each advance made by the people of this island. It is their earnest wish that the Porto Ricans shall soon be acknowledged as legal citizens of the United States, and that the coming generation may become so thoroughly "Americanized" that Congress will add another star to our flag to represent the State of Porto Rico. Porto Ricans can speed this day by cooperating with the government in its efforts to help the people rather than by attempting to obstruct. Further Progress 169 Two YEARS' PROGRESS IN PUBLIC EDUCATION IN PORTO RICO (Commissioner's Leaflet, 1909) The number of common schools increased from 1,139 to 1,912; increase, 67.8 per cent. (By "common school" is meant a teacher and group of pupils.) Total enrollment in common schools increased from 71,669 to 114,367; increase, 60.5 per cent. Average daily attendance in common schools increased from 44,218 to 72,776; increase, 64.6 per cent. Municipalities in which secondary instruction is given increased from three to eight. Enrollment in secondary schools increased from 182 to 321; increase, 84 per cent. Night schools increased from 98 to 118; increase, 20.4 per cent. Schools taught wholly in English increased from 202 to 429; increase, 114 per cent. Cost of maintenance of public schools for school year 1906-07, $832,588; for the year 1908-09, $1,146,619; increase in expense, 37.7 per cent. 170 Down in Porto Rico Number of school buildings erected during the first nine years of American occupation, 101, at a cost of $519,025. Number constructed during the past two years, 89, at a cost of $241,814. Government scholarships for students studying in the United States increased from 45 to 59. Government scholarships for students studying in the normal department of the University of Porto Rico increased from 28 to 75. Government scholarships for students studying in the high schools of the island increased from 50 to 100. Morrill fund secured for the University of Porto Rico. Plan of promotion of pupils in graded schools each six weeks instead of annually, introduced throughout the island. Extra year added to the course in rural schools. Kindergartens established. Local supervising officers increased from 19 to 35. Salaries of 737 teachers increased an average of $75 each. Further Progress 171 School playgrounds established in 17 municipalities. School banks established in 275 schools. School libraries established in 57 towns and barrios. MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. To the Senate and House of Representatives: An emergency has arisen in Porto Rico which makes it necessary for me to invite the attention of the Congress to the affairs of that island, and to recommend legislation at the present extra session amending the act under which the island is governed. The regular session of the legislative assembly of Porto Rico adjourned March 11 last without passing the usual appropriation bills. A special session of the assembly was at once convened by the governor, but after three days, on March 16, it again adjourned without making the appropriations. This leaves the island government without provision for its support after June 30 next. The situation presented is, therefore, of unusual gravity. The present government of Porto Rico 172 Down in Porto Rico was established by what is known as the Foraker Act, passed April 12, 1900, and taking effect- May 1, 1900. Under that act the chief executive is a governor appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. A secretary, attorney-general, treasurer, auditor, commissioner of the interior, and commissioner of education, together with five other appointees of the President, constitute the Executive Council. The Executive Council must have in its membership not less than five native Porto Ricans. The legislative power is vested in the legislative assembly, which has two coordinate branches. The first of these is the Executive Council just described, and the second is the House of Delegates, a popular and representative body, with members elected by the qualified electors of the seven districts into which the island is divided. The statute directing how the expenses of government are to be provided leaves some doubt whether this function is not committed solely to the Executive Council, but in practice the legislative assembly has made appropriations for all the expenses other than for salaries fixed by Congress, and it is too late to reverse that construction. Further Progress 173 Ever since the institution of the present assembly, the House of Delegates has uniformly held up the appropriation bills until the last minute of the regular session, and has sought to use the power to do so as a means of compelling the concurrence of the Executive Council in legislation which the House desired. In the last regular legislative assembly, the House of Delegates passed a bill dividing the island into several counties and providing county governments; a bill to establish manual training schools; a bill for the establishment of an agricultural bank; a bill providing that vacancies in the offices of mayors and councilmen be filled by a vote of the municipal councils instead of by the governor, and a bill putting in the control of the largest taxpayers in each municipal district the selection in great part of the assessors of property. The Executive Council declined to concur in these bills. It objected to the agricultural bank bill on the ground that the revenues of the island were not sufficient to carry out the plan proposed, and to the manual training school bill because in plain violation of the Foraker Act. It objected to the change 174 Down in Porto Rico in the law concerning the appraisement of property on the ground that the law was intended to put too much power, in respect of the appraisement of property for taxation, in the hands of those having the most property to tax. The chief issue was a bill making all the judges in municipalities elective. Under previous legislation there are 26 municipal judges who are elected to office. By this bill it was proposed to increase the elective judges from 26 to 66 in number, and at the same time to abolish the justices of the peace. The change was objected to on the ground that the election of municipal judges had already interfered with the efficient and impartial administration of justice, had made the judges all of one political faith and mere political instruments in the hands of the central committee of the Unionist or dominant party. The attitude of the Executive Council in refusing to pass these bills led the House of Delegates to refuse to pass the necessary appropriation bills. The facts recited demonstrate the willingness of the representatives of the people in the House of Delegates to subvert the government in order to secure the passage of certain legislation. The queqtion whether Further Progress 175 the proposed legislation should be enacted into law was left by the fundamental act to the joint action of the Executive Council and the House of Delegates as the legislative assembly. The House of Delegates proposes itself to secure this legislation without respect to the opposition of the Executive Council, or else to pull down the whole government. This spirit, which has been growing from year to year in Porto Rico, shows that too great power has been vested in the House of Delegates and that its members are not sufficiently alive to their oath-taken responsibility, for the maintenance of the government, to justify Congress in further reposing in them absolute power to withhold appropriations necessary for the government's life. For these reasons I recommend an amendment to the Foraker Act providing that whenever the legislative assembly shall adjourn without making the appropriations necessary to carry on the government, sums equal to the appropriations made in the previous year for the respective purposes shall be available from the current revenues and shall be drawn by the warrant of the auditor on the treasurer and countersigned by the Down in Porto Rico governor. Such a provision applies to the legislatures of the Philippines and Hawaii, and it has prevented in those two countries any misuse of the power of appropriation. The House of Delegates sent a committee of three to Washington, while the Executive Council was represented by the secretary and a committee consisting of the attorneygeneral and the auditor. I referred both committees to the secretary of the interior, whose report, with a letter from Governor Post, and the written statements of both committees, accompany this message. I have had one personal interview with the committee representing the House of Delegates and suggested to them that if the House of Delegates would pass the appropriation bill without insisting upon the passage of the other bills by the Executive Council, I would send a representative of the government to Porto Rico to make an investigation and report in respect to the proposed legislation. Their answer, which shows them not to be in a compromising mood, was as follows: "If the legislative assembly of Porto Rico would be called to an extraordinary session exclusively to pass an appropriation bill, taking into consideration Further Progress 177 the state of affairs down the island and the high dissatisfaction produced by the intolerant attitude of the Executive Council, and also taking into consideration the absolute resistance of the House to do any act against its own dignity and the dignity of the country, it is the opinion of these commissioners that no agreement would be attained unless the Council feel disposed to accept the amendments of the House of Delegates. "However, if in the proclamation calling for an extraordinary session the judicial and municipal reforms would be mentioned, and if the Executive Council would accept that the present justices of the peace be abolished and municipal judges created in every municipality, and that vacancies occurring in mayorships and judgeships be filled by the municipal councils, as provided in the so-called 'municipal bills' passed by the House in its last session, then the commissioners believe that the appropriation bills will be passed in the House as introduced in the council without delay." Porto Rico has been the favored daughter of the United States. The sovereignty of the island in 1899 passed to the United States with the full consent of the people of the island. Under the law all the customs and internal revenue taxes are turned into the treasury of Porto Rico for the maintenance of the island government, while the United States pays out of its own treasury the cost of the local army-that is, a full Porto 178 Down in Porto Rico Rican regiment-the revenue vessels, the lighthouse service, the coast surveys, the harbor improvements, the marine hospital support, the post office deficit, the weather bureau, and the upkeep of the agricultural experiment stations. Very soon after the change of sovereignty a cyclone destroyed a large part of Porto Rican coffee culture; $200,000 was expended from the United States treasury to buy rations for those left in distress. The island is policed by 700 men, and complete tranquillity reigns. Before American control 87 per cent of the Porto Ricans were unable to read or write, and there was not in this island, containing a million people, a single building constructed for public instruction, while the enrollment of pupils in such schools as there were, 551 in number, was but 21,000. Today in the island there are 160 such buildings, and the enrollment of pupils in 2,400 schools has reached the number of 87,000. The year before American sovereignty there was expended $35,000 in gold for public education. Under the present government there is expended for this purpose a total of a million dollars a year. Further Progress 179 When the Americans took control there were 172 miles of macadamized road. Since then there have been constructed 452 miles more, mostly in the mountains, making in all now a total of 624 miles of finely planned and admirably constructed macadamized roads-as good roads as there are in the world. In the course of the administration of this island, the United States medical authorities discovered a disease of tropical anaemia which was epidemic and was produced by a microbe called the "hook worm." It so much impaired the energy of those who suffered from it, and so often led to complete prostration and death, that it became necessary to undertake its cure by widespread governmental effort. I am glad to say that 225,000 natives, or one fourth of the entire population, have been treated at government expense, and the effect has been much to reduce the extent and severity of the disease and to bring it under control. Substantially every person in the island has been vaccinated and smallpox has practically disappeared. There is complete free trade between Porto Rico and the United States, and all 180 Down in Porto Rico customs duties collected in the United States on Porto Rican products subsequent to the date of Spanish evacuation, amounting to nearly $3,000,000, have been refunded to the island treasury. The loss to the revenues of the United States from the free admission of Porto Rican products is $15,000,000 annually. The wealth of the island is directly dependent upon the cultivation of the soil, to cane, tobacco, coffee, and fruit, for which we in America provide the market. Without our fostering benevolence the business of Porto Rico would be as prostrate as are some of the neighboring West Indian islands. Before American control the trade balance against the island was over $12,500,000, while the present balance of trade in favor of the island is $2,500,000. The total of exports and imports has increased from about $22,000,000 before American sovereignty to $56,000,000 at the present day. At the date of the American occupation the estimated value of all agricultural land was about $30,000,000. Now the appraised value of the real property in the island reaches $100,000,000. The expenses of government before American control were $2,969,000, while the receipts were Further Progress 181 $3,644,000. For the year 1906 the receipts were $4,250,000, and the expenditures were $4,084,000. Of the civil servants in the central government, 343 are Americans and 2,548 are native Porto Ricans. There never was a time in the history of the island when the average prosperity of the Porto Rican has been higher, when his opportunity has been greater, when his liberty of thought and action was more secure. Representatives of the House of Delegates insist in their appeals to Congress and to the public that from the standpoint of a free people the Porto Ricans are now subjected under American control to political oppression and to a much less liberal government than under that of Spain. To prove this they refer to the provisions of a royal decree of 1897, promulgated in November of that year. The decree related to the government of Porto Rico and Cuba and was undoubtedly a great step forward in granting a certain sort of autonomy to the people of the two islands. The war followed within a few months after its promulgation, and it is impossible to say what its practical operation would have been. It was a tentative arrangement, revocable at the pleasure of the Crown, and had, fi82 Down in Porto Rico in its provisions, authority for the governorgeneral to suspend all of the laws of the legislature of the island until approved or disapproved at home, and to suspend at will all constitutional guarantees of life, liberty, and property, supposed to be the basis of civil liberty and free institutions. The insular legislature had no power to enact new laws or to amend existing laws governing property rights or the life and liberty of the people. The jurisdiction to pass these remained in the hands of the National Cortes and included the mass of code laws governing the descent and distribution and transfer of property and contracts, and torts, land laws, notarial laws, laws of waters and mines, penal statutes, civil, criminal, and administrative procedure, organic laws of the municipalities, election laws, the code of commerce, etc. In contrast with this, under its present form of government the island legislature possesses practically all the powers of an American commonwealth, and the constitutional guarantees of its inhabitants, instead of being subject to suspension by executive discretion, are absolutely guaranteed by act of Congress. The great body of substantive Further Progress 183 law now in force in the island-political, civil, and criminal code, codes of political, civil, and criminal procedure, the revenue, municipal, electoral, franchise, educational, police, and public works laws, and the likehas been enacted by the people of the island themselves, as no law can be put upon the statute books unless it has received the approval of the representative lower house of the legislature. In no single case has the Congress of the United States intervened to annul or control acts of the legislative assembly. For the first time in the history of Porto Rico the island is living under laws enacted by its own legislature. It is idle, however, to compare political power of the Porto Ricans under the royal decree of 1897, when their capacity to exercise it with benefit to themselves was never in fact tested, with that which they have under the Foraker Act. The question we have before us is whether their course since the adoption of the Foraker Act does not show the necessity for withholding from them the absolute power given by that act to the legislative assembly over appropriations, when the House of Delegates, as a coordinate branch of that assembly, shows itself willing 184 Down in Porto Rico and anxious to use such absolute power, not to support and maintain the government, but to render it helpless. If the Porto Ricans desire a change in the form of the Foraker Act, this is a matter of congressional consideration dependent on the effect of such a change on the real political progress in the island. Such a change should be sought in an orderly way and not brought to the attention of Congress by paralyzing the arm of the existing govelrnment. I do not doubt that the terms of the existing fundamental act might be improved, certainly in qualifying some of its provisions as to the respective jurisdictions of the Executive Council and the legislative assembly; and I suggest to Congress the wisdom of submitting to the appropriate committees this question of revision. But no action of this kind should be begun until after, by special amendment of the Foraker Act, the absolute power of appropriation is taken away from those who have shown themselves too irresponsible to enjoy it. In the desire of certain of their leaders for political power Porto Ricans have forgotten the generosity of the United States in its Further Progress 185 dealings with them. This should not be an occasion for surprise, nor in dealing with a whole people can it be made the basis of a charge of ingratitude. When we, with the consent of the people of Porto Rico, assumed guardianship over them and the guidance of their destinies, we must have been conscious that a people that had enjoyed so little opportunity for education could not be expected safely for themselves to exercise the full power of self-government; and the present development is only an indication that we have gone somewhat too fast in the extension of political power to them for their own good. The change recommended may not immediately convince those controlling the House of Delegates of the mistake they have made in the extremity to which they have been willing to resort for political purposes, but in the long run it will secure more careful and responsible exercise of the power they have. There is not the slightest evidence that there has been on the part of the governor or of any member of the Executive Council a disposition to usurp authority, or to withhold approval of such legislation as was for 186 Down in Porto Rico the best interests of the island, or a lack of sympathy with the best aspirations of the Porto Rican people. WM. H. TAFT. The White House, May 10, 1909. UNIV. OF i:,,~, JUN A2i8. I r I c u ~~::; i IS UNIVERSITYO MICHIGAN 3 9015 02445 9631 THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN DATE DUE a 7; ~ir~~~~~~~~~~~~ iri ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 44 4ii44: 44< 44 4 4k 4 44 4 pp ~ ~ F9J:E~~i~r j~. 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