La Plata - History

The city of La Plata was founded by Dardo Rocha on November 19, 1882. Rocha, at that time head of the government of the province of Buenos Aires, aimed at giving the province a new capital. The plan on which the city was built makes it one of the most relevant examples of 19th century urban architecture. La Plata has become an important administrative, commercial and cultural center, and offers entertainment facilities as well. The city houses the National University of La Plata, known as one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Latin America. The colour and rhythm of the city are faithfully reflected in its magnificent architectural style, its parks, avenues, squares and other sights which make the city an enjoyable place for the visitor.

In 1746 next to Laguna de las Cabrillas (now Laguna de los Padres), Jesuit Missionaries founded the mission named Reducciσn del Pilar to convert Indians to Christianity. Indian population reached the considerable number of 1200 when the zone was recognized as town but the mission had to be abandoned in 1751 due to the hostile native dwellers

In 1856 Josι Coelho de Meyrelles, member of a portuguese consortium, settled in this zone to set up a salting plant considered to be the first urban development of the region.
In 1860 Josι Coelho de Meyrelles sold his possessions to Patricio Peralta Ramos. On 10 October 1874 after Patricio Peralta Ramos' discussions, the governor of the province of Buenos Aires decreed the recognition of Mar del Plata as town. This is considered Mar del Plata foundation date. General Pueyrredon district was created on 15 October 1879.
As time went by, Mar del Plata became the seaside resort of the aristocratic families of Buenos Aires who built impressive residences along the coast, some of which are the permanent reminder of the Belle Époque.

History of The tango originated in society's underbelly--the brothels of turn-of-the-century Argentina. As immigrants from Europe, Africa, and ports unknown streamed into the outskirts of Buenos Aires during the 1880's, many gravitated toward the port city's houses of ill repute. In these establishments, the portenos (as they were called) could drown their troubles in a few drinks and find some companionship. They looked desperately for a distraction to ease their sense of rootlessness and disfranchisement as "strangers in a strange land." The first two decades of the new century, the tango took Paris by storm. The blessings of the Parisians, in turn, made it a staple of Argentinean high society. Tango was reigning supreme in the cabarets and theatres frequented by the rich. Out of this culture, the tango musician became elevated to professional composer status. A pioneer in this genre, Roberto Firpo, created the typical tango orchestra--rhythm played on piano and double bass; melodies played on the bandoneon and the violin, with strong counter melodies and variations. The stars of this era were Osvaldo Fresedo and Julio de Caro.