Who was Raoul A. Cortez? whose 118th birthday was celebrated by Google Doodle today

Mexican-American media icon, Raoul A. Cortez, has been celebrated by Google Doodle on his 118th birthday. Cortez, a trailblazer for Spanish-language media in the United States, is renowned for his contributions as a broadcaster and community activist.

Born in Veracruz, Mexico, in 1905, Cortez's family immigrated to the United States when he was a child, eventually settling in San Antonio, Texas. He began his journey in the media industry as a reporter for La Prensa, a Spanish-language daily newspaper based in San Antonio.

In the 1930s and 1940s, he ventured into the world of entertainment, owning and operating a Theatrical Agency that introduced talented performers from Mexico and Latin American countries to U.S. audiences. Cortez then purchased airtime on KMAC Radio, where he produced Spanish songs, comedy acts, and sketches.

Recognizing the need for Spanish-language content in the U.S., Cortez applied for his own radio station, making history as the founder of the first Spanish-language radio station in the country.

In 1946, the station, known as "La Voz Mexicana" (The Mexican/Mexican American Voice), hit the airwaves. With the success of his radio show, Cortez expanded into television, becoming the first Latino-run American TV station in Spanish.

Cortez was not only a media mogul but also a prominent civil rights advocate for U.S. Latinos. He played a crucial role in the Delgado v. Bastrop Independent School District court case, which led to the end of segregation of Mexican Americans in Texas public schools.

Additionally, he served as president of the League of United Latin American Citizens for two terms and was instrumental in discussions with both U.S. and Mexican presidents, contributing to immigration reform and the development of the Bracero Program.

Raoul A. Cortez's legacy endures through various accolades. The National Association of Broadcasters recognized his contributions with a media excellence award, and the Medallas de Cortez Hispanic Radio Award, established by Radio Ink, celebrates Latino radio leaders in his honor.

In 2015, Cortez and his media programs were featured in the American Enterprise exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

Feliz cumpleaños, Raoul A. Cortez! Your pioneering work in Spanish-language media and unwavering dedication to civil rights continue to inspire generations.