Unknown to even most cubans it was he who was the principal author of the Cuban Constitution proclaimed at La Yara, Cuba in 1896.
General Aleman, a lawyer by profession and owner of a newspaper in Santa Clara, Cuba in the province of Las Villas fought the Spanish at every turn and opportunity. Finally joining the rebels "mambises" and leading them to victory many times. His sage wit and 'sangfroid' in the heat of battle earned the respect of all his men.
After the war General Aleman served as Governor and Senator for Las Villas, Cuba, Minister of Education and Ambassador to Mexico. Many had hoped for his nomination to the office of President of the Republic of Cuba, unfortunately General Aleman's age and health prevented further aspirations. He died in La Habana, Cuba January 15, 1930.
His burial attended by thousands breathed an atmosphere of sadness and a rite of passage by a country bidding farewell to a soldier who gave his best of his talents and virtues to his beloved Cuba.