The Executive Branch has decreed that 2013 will be the Bicentennial Year of Duarte, the founder of the Dominican nationality. Duarte was born on 26 January 1813. Duarte represents much of what Dominicans would like to restore. He is known for his collective thinking, his constructive spirit, and for being a man of action and not just words. He is known for being a democrat and supporter of the rule of law. In an editorial commenting on the announcement, Diario Libre says that Dominicans should strive to co-opt Duarte’s ideas; namely, respect for the law, unity of races, and honesty in all areas of life.
http://www.diariolibre.com/noticias/2012/12/23/i364975_gobierno-declara-2013-ano-del-bicentenario-del-natalicio-juan-duarte.html