marta abreu is notable for the numerous projects which she and her family promoted through their philanthropy, intended to enhance the life of all citizens of santa clara. marta abreu and her husband luis estévez, who became the first vice president of the young republic in 1902, were well-known sympathizers and contributors to the cuban rebels cause during the war of cuban independence against spain (known in the united states as the spanish–american war, as the us became involved in supporting some forces seeking independence).