Augusto Leguía governed Peru across two distinct periods, most notably during an eleven-year span known as the Oncenio. Born in Lambayeque in 1863, he transitioned from a successful career as an insurance executive in the United States to hold the highest office in his country, ultimately shaping modern Peruvian infrastructure and economic policy through significant legislative reform.
Early Career and Civilista Politics
Educated in Valparaíso, Leguía initially served in the Peruvian Army during the War of the Pacific. Following his military service, he moved to the United States, finding professional success with the New York Life Insurance Company. Upon returning to Peru, he entered politics in 1903 at the urging of Manuel Candamo and José Pardo. Between 1903 and 1907, he served as Minister of Economy and Finance, subsequently becoming President of the Council of Ministers.
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Elected by an alliance of Civil and Constitutional parties, Leguía focused on industrialization and capitalist reform. In 1911, his administration enacted a significant social security law providing occupational accident protection for workers. His tenure was marked by internal instability, including a 1909 kidnapping attempt by political opponents that resulted in violent clashes near the Bolivar Monument. Externally, he secured boundary agreements with Brazil via the Treaty of Velarde-Río Branco and with Bolivia through the Treaty of Polo-Bustamante.
The Oncenio and Authoritarian Reform
In 1919, Leguía seized power through a military coup to preempt the transition of José Pardo. During this second presidency, he promulgated the 1920 Constitution, which allowed for unlimited reelections. While he ruled as a dictator and suppressed political dissent, his administration oversaw extensive public works, including the remodeling of the Palacio de Gobierno and the construction of over 800 schools. His economic initiatives established institutions like the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú, while agricultural programs led to a tripling of production between 1919 and 1930.
Fast facts
- Born: 1863, Lambayeque
- Died: 1932, Lima
- First Presidency: 1908–1912
- Second Presidency: 1919–1930
- Burial site: Presbítero Matias Maestro
- Notable honor: Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Pius IX (1920)
- Foreign business experience: New York Life Insurance Company
Questions readers ask
What was the Oncenio?
The term refers to the eleven-year period of Augusto Leguía's second presidency, which lasted from 1919 until his 1930 overthrow.
What major infrastructure changes occurred during his second term?
His government remodeled the Palacio de Gobierno, built over 800 primary schools, and created new banking institutions, including the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú.
