Famous vocalist of exotica music, pioneer of world music, and winner of Guinness World Record. She had the range of five octaves when most experienced singers only have three. She was also the first Latin American singer to debut on Broadway.

Peruvian environmentalist and indigenous Peruvian leader who has contributed to the protection of rainforests and rivers in the Loreto area of Peru. Thanks to her persistence, Yaguas National Park was established in 2018.

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Self-taught poet, writer, and folklorist. He was a black intellectual leader in Peru and Latin America. He merged his creative talents and used this as a platform for black history, history, and traditions all the while fighting for social justice for oppressed afro-latinos in Latin America.

Peruvian astronautics engineer who was the first Latin American to command three missions in NASA. She is an official speaker of NASA and the US Department of State. She is also known for supporting youth to pursue scientific careers.

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Historically famous medical case but traumatizing based on foundation of rape and child sexual assault. In 1939, Lina was the youngest female to ever give birth at the age of 5 years old. Her case garnered widespread interest and unfortunately the identity of the father and assailant was never discovered.

Famous novelist in the genre of magical realism. She is the author of The House of the Spirits and City of the Beasts.

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Retired professional soccer player who played as a striker. He was also the captain of the Peruvian National Team.

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Novelist, journalist, essayist, and former politician. Nobel Prize winner in literature. His works are heavily influenced by Peruvian society and his own experiences as a native Peruvian.

Famous young actress who starred in various Hollywood movies such as: Instant Family, Dora and the Lost City of Gold (where she was inspired by her Peruvian heritage) and the upcoming Madame Web.

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Scottish-Peruvian stage, television, and film actor. Henry gained popularity for his role as Desmond Hume on the series Lost and even received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.

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Civil rights champion. At 13 he and his family were kidnapped by Peruvian police and sent to the US. Upon arrival they were placed in internment camps. After the camps were dissolved Art was stateless. He spent the majority of his life as an activist, battling the US for redress of Japense Latin Americans.

© 2018 Diana Cole | IMAGE AND INFORMATION FROM DISCOVER NIKKEI