Laureano Gómez was a Colombian journalist and political leader who served as President of Colombia from 1950 to 1951. As a prominent figure in the Conservative Party and co-founder of the newspaper El Siglo, he was known for his advocacy of hierarchical governance and strong opposition to Liberal policies. His brief and contentious presidency ended following a military coup.
The National University of Colombia awarded a civil engineering degree to Laureano Gómez in 1909, marking the start of a public life defined by intense partisan conflict. Operating as a journalist, diplomat, and eventually the nation's leader, he shaped Colombian political discourse for decades, often drawing sharp criticism for his advocacy of authoritarian governance and his vocal opposition to mass democratic participation.
Political Ascent and Parliamentary Influence
Entering parliament in 1911, Gómez served until 1918 before returning in 1921. He established a reputation as a potent orator and disciplined strategist. By 1932, he seized control of the Conservative Party, utilizing it as a vehicle for aggressive opposition against the ruling Liberal government. His ideology favored a hierarchical society, leading him to denounce universal suffrage and express admiration for the dictatorial regimes of Francisco Franco and the Axis powers.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Journalistic Activism through El Siglo
In 1936, Gómez co-founded the newspaper El Siglo with Jose de la Vega. The publication served as a primary platform for promoting Catholicism and conservative ideals while relentlessly attacking Liberal policies. The tone of these criticisms was frequently described as vitriolic, earning him the nickname El Monstruo from his political rivals. During the 1948 Bogotazo, the newspaper offices were dynamited following earlier arson attempts.
Presidency and Internal Conflict
Gómez secured the presidency in 1950 after a Liberal boycott of the election. His administration was characterized by the continuation of the state of emergency, known as La Violencia, and the persecution of political minorities. During this time, he committed Colombian troops to the Korean War, a decision that intensified factionalism within his own party. His tenure was marked by a commitment to curbing majoritarian influence in favor of elite governance.
Constitutional Reform and Ouster
Following a severe heart attack on 28 October 1951, Gómez was partially paralyzed. He delegated power to Roberto Urdaneta Arbeláez on 5 November 1951 but continued to drive constitutional reforms from his sickbed. These proposals aimed to strengthen executive power and extend presidential terms. His attempt to resume full control in June 1953 resulted in his removal from office via a military coup led by Gustavo Rojas Pinilla.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 February 1889, Bogotá
- Died: 13 July 1965, Bogotá
- Education: National University of Colombia, St. Bartholomew Major College
- Presidency: 1950-1951
- Minister of Foreign Affairs: 1948
- Award: Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic
- Final Resting Place: Central Cemetery of Bogotá
Questions readers ask
Why was the newspaper El Siglo closed?
In 1953, the government banned the newspaper after it published letters from the exiled Gómez that criticized the military regime of General Gustavo Rojas Pinilla, violating censorship policies.
What caused the end of his presidency?
After suffering a paralyzing heart attack in 1951, Gómez attempted to return to his duties in 1953, which triggered a military coup led by Gustavo Rojas Pinilla.
