Antonio López de Santa Anna held the presidency of Mexico on eight separate occasions between 1833 and 1855. A dominant military and political figure throughout the 19th century, he navigated the transition from New Spain to an independent republic, often serving as a centralist ruler who frequently dissolved the national Congress to consolidate his own authority.
Military Origins and Independence
Born in 1794 in Xalapa, Santa Anna entered the military at a young age, joining the Fijo de Veracruz infantry regiment in 1810. During the Mexican War of Independence, he initially served as a royalist officer fighting against insurgent forces. However, he switched allegiances in 1821, supporting the movement that secured Mexican independence. This pattern of shifting political and military loyalties became a defining feature of his long public career.
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Throughout his career, Santa Anna occupied the presidency in 1833, 1834–1835, 1839, 1841–1842, 1843, 1844, 1847, and 1853–1855. His governing style was marked by an abrupt movement between liberal and conservative factions. After being elected as a liberal, he frequently aligned with conservative groups to overthrow his own vice presidents. He famously adopted the honorific title His Most Serene Highness and wielded dictatorial power, using the military to dismantle legislative bodies.
Territorial Loss and Exile
The era of his influence saw significant territorial changes for Mexico, including the loss of Texas and the cessions resulting from the Mexican–American War. As a generalissimo, he led forces in these conflicts, notably resisting the goals of the United States. Following the conflict, he authorized the Gadsden Purchase in 1854. His final term ended in 1855 when the Plan of Ayutla forced him into exile. He eventually returned to Mexico City, where he died in 1876.
Fast facts
- Born: 1794, Xalapa
- Died: 1876, Mexico City
- Citizenship: Mexico, New Spain
- Highest Rank: Generalissimo
- Presidency Terms: Eight separate periods
- Award: Order of Charles III (1843)
- Languages: Spanish, English
Questions readers ask
How many times did Santa Anna serve as President of Mexico?
He served as president on eight separate occasions between 1833 and 1855.
What was the significance of the Plan of Ayutla?
The Plan of Ayutla was the political movement that removed Santa Anna from the presidency in 1855, leading to his exile.
Achievements
- President of Mexico (1833–1833)
- Governor of Yucatán
- President of Mexico (1833–1833)
- President of Mexico (1833–1833)
- Order of Charles III — 1843
