National memory politics are based on hero cults. However, our glance on Latin America and its hero production is directed towards the 'other' hero, underscoring fourfold aspects. Through 18 case studies about ten American countries and epochs, this volume examines the (posthumous) rise of subaltern figures - members of marginalized groups and women - who became national heroes. Based on individual case studies, it will be analyzed, how the 'hero status' was historically and literarily constructed and politically managed, but also how this status could be withdrawn on political grounds. We thematize historical figures that can be regarded as 'heroes' even if they failed to attain heroic status in their national arenas and we study representational forms of currently controversial memory cultures, exemplified by demolished monuments, social media and political graffiti.