Modernismo is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in Latin America and Spain. It sought to break away from traditional forms and styles, embracing innovation and experimentation. Influenced by Symbolism and Impressionism, modernismo emphasized aesthetic beauty, musicality in language, and a focus on individual experience. Key figures of modernismo include Rubén Darío, a Nicaraguan poet who is often considered the movement's leading voice. His works, along with those of other modernistas, explored themes of identity, nature, and the human condition, contributing to a rich cultural dialogue that shaped modern literature in the Spanish-speaking world.