The Constitution of 1824 provided the legal foundation for the United Mexican States, leading to the selection of José Miguel Ramón Adaucto Fernández y Félix as the nation's inaugural president. Known publicly as Guadalupe Victoria, he transitioned from a military commander during the War of Independence into a central figure in early Mexican political administration.
Early Life and Education
Born on 29 September 1786 in Tamazula, New Spain, he was orphaned early in childhood and raised by his uncle, Agustín Fernández. After initial schooling at the Seminary of Durango, he moved to Mexico City in 1807. He attended the San Ildefonso College, where he completed a Bachelor of Laws degree on 24 April 1811 before becoming involved in the insurgent movement.
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He joined the forces of Hermenegildo Galeana in 1812 and fought under José María Morelos during the siege of Cuautla and the capture of Oaxaca. Adopting the name Guadalupe Victoria to signify his devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe and the goal of victory, he commanded operations in Veracruz. His guerrilla tactics focused on strategic sites like Puente del Rey and Boquilla de Piedras, disrupting colonial supply lines until his forces were pushed back in 1816.
The First Presidency
Following the exile of Agustín de Iturbide in 1823, Victoria served in the Provisional Government. In 1824, he assumed the presidency, becoming the only leader in early independent Mexico to complete a full term. During his administration, he founded the National Museum, established diplomatic ties with the United States and the United Kingdom, and oversaw the final defeat of the Spanish stronghold at San Juan de Ulúa.
Later Career and Death
After transferring power to Vicente Guerrero in 1829, he remained active in public life as a senator and served briefly as Governor of Puebla in 1834. In 1838, he negotiated an end to the Pastry War with France. He died on 21 March 1845 at the San Carlos Fortress while receiving treatment for epilepsy.
Fast facts
- Born: 1786, Tamazula de Victoria
- Died: 1845, San Carlos Fortress
- Education: San Ildefonso College
- Term as President: 1824-1829
- Spouse: María Antonieta Bretón
- Religion: Catholicism
- Occupation: Lawyer, politician, soldier
- Burial: Mexico City
Questions readers ask
Was Guadalupe Victoria his original name?
No, he was born José Miguel Ramón Adaucto Fernández y Félix.
What medical condition caused his death?
He died from epilepsy in 1845.
