The Félix Varela distinction, conferred by the board of directors of the Friends of the Country Economic Society, was awarded post-mortem to Dr. Eusebio Leal Spengler (1942-2020).

As published by the Radio Enciclopedia website, the delivery took place in a private ceremony, in which Dr. Zoila Benítez de Mendoza, president of the Friends of the Country Economic Society, read the special resolution of 2021 that legalizes the granting.

The document refers, among other arguments, that Dr. Leal, a historian of Havana until his death on July 31, was linked from his school years to the end of his life to this institution of Cuban thought, using his public library in the one who learned to love books, and provided key ideas and directions for her work.

The accrediting medal, which on its main face shows the effigy of Father Félix Varela, and on its back presents the shield of the Friends of the Country Economic Society, of which the historian was President of Honor, was deposited in the hands of his son Javier Leal.

The precious recognition is added to the innumerable distinctions granted in life to the beloved Cuban intellectual, politician, essayist and researcher, a passionate admirer and promoter of the thought of the Cuban priest Félix Varela.

Leal was Doctor Honoris Causa from several universities in Latin America and Europe, and among other awards he held the Victor Hugo Medal and the World Decade for Cultural Development Medal, awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Scientific Organization. Culture (UNESCO).

He also held the Juan Marinello Order of the Republic of Cuba, the First Degree Félix Varela Order, awarded by the Council of State of the Republic of Cuba, the Fernando Ortiz International Award (2005) and the Gran Cruz de la Real y Distinguished Spanish Order of Carlos III, granted by the King of Spain, Felipe VI, as part of the celebrations for the 500th anniversary of the Cuban capital.