The Life and Times of Richard Castro
Bridging a Cultural Divide
Colorado Historical Society
Hispanic leader Richard Castro wasn't above a good street fight. Denver police beat him bloody during a 1960's confrontation, and political rivals later shot him and bombed his home. But he emerged from the early struggles of Denver's Hispanic movement - El Movimiento - to become one of Colorado's most important political figures. During his ten years as a state representative and, later, as a key ally of Denver mayor Federico Peña, Castro personified the Hispanic community's newfound political power. The Life and Times of Richard Castro traces Castro's path from the streets of west Denver to the chambers of the state capitol. It also traces a community's coming of age - an event that transformed politics and society in Colorado and throughout the West. Published by the Colorado Historical Society
This is a well-written, overall exemplary biogray. It will surely find a home among lay readers, and Gould is to be complemented for his contribution to these and related fields. It is civil rights history at its finest.'
—Roberto R. Calderon, Western Historical Quarterly
Richard Gould teaches in Denver.