Clemente Soto Vélez (1905 – April 15, 1993) was a prominent Puerto Rican poet, journalist, political activist, and cultural leader whose work bridged the realms of literature and social justice

Born in Lares, Puerto Rico—a town historically associated with the 1868 pro-independence uprising known as "El Grito de Lares"—Soto Vélez faced early adversity, losing both parents by the age of seven. He was subsequently raised by his godfather. After completing his primary education in Lares, he pursued studies in painting under Ildefonso Ruiz Vélez in Arecibo. In 1918, he relocated to San Juan to live with his sister and enrolled at the Ramírez Commercial School, where he studied electrical engineering and business administration. During this period, he connected with fellow poets Alfredo Margenat and Pedro Carrasquillo, marking the beginning of his literary journey.