Víctor Balaguer i Cirera

Víctor Balaguer i Cirera (Catalan pronunciation: [ˈbiktuɾ βələˈɣe]; 11 December 1824 – 14 January 1901) was a Spanish politician and author, was born in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) on 11 December 1824, and was educated at the university of his native city.

From 1843 to 1868 he was the chief of the Liberal party in Barcelona, and as proprietor and editor of El Conseller did much to promote the growth of Catalan patriotism.

Henceforward he frequently adopted the pseudonym of "Lo Trovador de Montserrat"; in 1859 he helped to restore the "Jocs Florals", and in 1861 was proclaimed mestre en gay saber.

He was removed to Madrid, took a prominent part in political life, and in 1867 emigrated to Provence.

He resigned office at the restoration, but finally followed his party in rallying to the dynasty; he was appointed vice-president of Congress, and was subsequently a senator.

Bust of Balaguer in the Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona