Published in 1970, Evita: The Life and Work of Eva Perón serves as a compelling graphic biography that daringly follows the artist’s earlier controversial work, Life of Che. This remarkable piece is plotted by the talented Hector Germán Oesterheld, with the artistic brilliance of the father-son duo, Alberto and Enrique Breccia, who together created stunning illustrations that bring Eva’s story to life. However, it is important to note that journalist Luis Alberto Murray initially sanitized the text, altering the raw essence of Eva’s life.

Fast forward to 2001, when comics publisher Javier Doeyo unearthed Oesterheld’s original script. This discovery was monumental, particularly considering Oesterheld’s presumed death at the hands of a military regime. The restored and revised version finally found its way into the hands of English-speaking audiences, providing an authentic representation of Eva Perón’s life and work.

The graphic biography begins dramatically with the public’s reaction to Perón’s body being laid to rest in Recoleta Cemetery in 1976, setting the stage for a retrospective look into her life through a series of flashbacks. Readers are invited to explore her humble beginnings in extreme poverty, leading to her rise as a prominent actress in Buenos Aires, particularly through her work on the radio.

While engaged in fundraising for local relief efforts, Eva Duarte crossed paths with Colonel Perón. Their relationship blossomed both personally and politically, culminating in their marriage during a tumultuous period when Perón faced imprisonment. Following mass protests and union organization, Perón emerged victorious, eventually being elected president in 1946.

As First Lady, affectionately dubbed ‘Evita,’ she poured her heart and soul into establishing a foundation dedicated to social services. Her passion for campaigning for women’s right to vote and her role in representing Argentina on the international stage solidified her position as a significant figure in the nation’s history. Despite her popularity among the poor, society often scorned her, labeling her as ‘The Spiritual Leader of the Nation.’

In the thought-provoking afterword, Argentine scholar Pablo Turnes elaborates on how this graphic biography reflects the complexities of Perónism. He asserts that ‘Perónism has not survived 76 years in spite of its contradictions; its contradictions are what has allowed it to reinvent itself every time it was needed.’ This insight underscores the enduring relevance of Eva Perón’s story and the multifaceted nature of her legacy, making this graphic biography not only a tribute to her life but also a commentary on the socio-political landscape of Argentina.

In conclusion, Evita: The Life and Work of Eva Perón offers a profound exploration of one woman’s journey from poverty to becoming a beacon of hope for many. This graphic biography is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the life of a woman who became an icon in her own right and whose influence continues to resonate in contemporary society.