Argentina puts Evita's face on currency

Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez unveils an archetype of the new 100-pesos banknote bearing the profile of former first lady Maria Eva Duarte de Peron, better known as "Evita," during a ceremony at government palace in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Wednesday, July 25, 2012. / AP Photo/Alberto Raggio,DyN

(AP) BUENOS AIRES, Argentina - Argentina's iconic former first lady Evita Peron has been honored in song, in film and currently on Broadway. Now her face will grace the nation's currency.

President Cristina Fernandez revealed the new 100-peso note Wednesday night on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the death of Evita Peron. She's the first woman to appear on any Argentine banknote.

In The Footsteps Of "Evita"

Fernandez, whose party was inspired by Evita's husband, strongman Juan Peron, said the initial printing will be commemorative, but she said she wants all new 100-peso notes to eventually carry the former first lady's image, replacing that of Julio Argentino Roca, a 19th century president.

"After 200 years it's the first time that a woman appears on a bill, and if you have to honor the gender, who better than the figure of Eva?" she asked.

Peron was a controversial figure, but one who fought with passion for society to be more equal and just, Fernandez said.

"It's not that Eva was a saint. It's not that she didn't make mistakes ... She was a humble woman of the people," the president said. "Honoring her with this bill is a way of recovering justice."

[PeterCatholic]

Almighty God, your spirit moved many to see in Eva Peron the glory of Argentina. Reward the heroism of her agonising devotion to you and to the poor. Glorify her on earth who you have already glorified in Heaven. Let her be raised to the altar and numbered among your saints. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Eva Peron, kneel at the feet of the Immaculate Queen of Heaven and pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.

[IPonUall]

My father attended 2 state dinners with the Perons.
He was a national hero and decorated twice.
I can say that my father did indeed adore his President and First Lady.
He had lived in exile for most of his life since, and died long ago in America.

[Widget26]

The press has been watching too many Broadway shows;
her name is EVA PERON! Until the show was released, I am not even sure that she was ever referred to as Evita. Check this out and let me know if I am wrong! Thank you.

[Eriverq]

Poor Evita there putting her face on useless currency while there 1% hides all there money outside the country.

[IPonUall]

Actually the economy of Argentina is slowly recovering.
Argentina has made a deal with China for it's exports.
Soon they might be strong enough to kick the British colonists off the Malvinas.

[Transatlantique]

They should have stuck her behind on the notes, the two are interchangeable.