Toussaint, Manuel, 1890-1955

Manuel Toussaint y Ritter (29 May 1890 – 9 November 1955) was a Mexican notable historian, writer, essayist, literary and art critic, art historian and academic. He is best known for his work on Mexican history, especially during the colonial period. His scholarship was influential in shaping the understanding of Mexico's history during the 20th century. Toussaint is recognized for his contributions to historical methodology and for his writings that helped frame the understanding of Mexican history in a more critical light. He was a forerunner in the study of the history of colonial art in Mexico, and was also interested in pre-Hispanic and 19th-century art. He was a defender of the country's artistic heritage. He authored over 30 books and more than 250 essays and articles.