Silva, José María

Born in Galicia the same year his father died fighting in the Cuban War of Independence. Six years later, his mother decided to emigrate to the Río de la Plata and brought him to what would become his adopted country. At the age of 14, in need of work, he found employment at El Indio, a photography studio, and soon learned the trade. In his extensive career, he photographed various personalities such as Juan Domingo Perón, Luis Alberto de Herrera, Mariano Mores, Alberto Candeau, José Belloni, León Felipe, and others. Notably, Carlos Gardel was one of his most loyal clients and friends, and nicknamed him "Silvita." He also served as a photojournalist during the final match of the 1930 World Cup, covering the event from one of the goalposts. He presided over the Association of Professional Photographers of Uruguay for 28 years, retiring in 1994. Silva worked until the age of 96, assisted by his son Julio César. At 100 years old, he was honored and interviewed by international press agencies such as the BBC and DPA. He also received the distinction of "Uruguayan Immigrant of the Year" in 1998 from the Minister of Education and Culture. He passed away at the age of 102, a victim of pneumonia.