Picking up a book called 'La situación de Puerto-Rico' by 'Anonymous' is an act of curiosity. There's no famous name on the cover to guide you, just the weight of the subject itself. Written in Spanish and published in the late 19th century, this book is a direct address. It's not a novel with a plot in the traditional sense, but a passionate argument, a political analysis, and a cultural portrait all rolled into one.

The Story

Think of it less as a story with characters and more as a journey through a moment in time. The 'Anonymous' author acts as your guide through the complex political reality of Puerto Rico under Spanish colonial rule. The book lays out the different paths forward debated by the people of the island: full assimilation into Spain, autonomy (self-government within the Spanish empire), or complete independence. It details the economic struggles, the social tensions, and the deep longing for a voice. The central 'character,' in a way, is Puerto Rico itself, and the 'plot' is the intense national conversation about its future identity.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was the raw urgency in the writing. Because the author is hidden, the text feels brutally honest, free from the need to protect a reputation. You're not getting a polished, official history. You're getting a heated, living-room debate from 1890. You can feel the frustration with colonial policies and the passionate hope for change. Reading it today, with the island's status still a topic of discussion, adds a powerful layer. It shows that these questions of identity and sovereignty are not new; they are deeply rooted in the island's past. This book gives you that foundation in the most direct way possible.

Final Verdict

This isn't a beach read. It's for the curious reader who loves primary sources and hearing history from the people who lived it. It's perfect for anyone interested in Puerto Rican history, colonial studies, or political science. If you enjoy the mystery of found documents or anonymous manifestos, you'll be fascinated by the puzzle of its authorship. Most of all, it's for readers who want to understand the deep, historical roots of contemporary conversations. Just be ready to lean in and listen closely to a voice from the shadows of the past.