Carlos Quirino was a prominent historian and writer. He was the first National Artist for Historical Literature when it was added as a new award category in 1997.

CARLOS QUIRINO

Quirino was a pioneer of historical literature written in English. He was also renowned for his many biographies of important Filipinos. In particular, for having written one of the earliest biographies of Jose Rizal in English, entitled, 'The Great Malayan'.

His books and articles covered and captured many aspects of Philippine history and culture. His books on cartography are still considered as the best books on the subject. His other books include Quezon, Man of Destiny, Magsaysay of the Philippines, Lives of the Philippine Presidents, The History of Philippine Sugar Industry, Filipinos at War: The Fight for Freedom from Mactan to EDSA .

Quirino was also the first Filipino correspondent for the United Press Institue.

14 January 1910

to 20 May 1999