Guerrero emerged as a key commander during the Mexican War of Independence, ultimately serving as the young nation's second president in 1829. His trajectory from a regional insurgent leader to the head of the First Mexican Republic marked a shift in colonial power, as he pushed for a society defined by total independence rather than caste distinctions.
Insurgency and Guerrilla Warfare
Born in 1782 in Tixtla, Guerrero initially worked as a muleteer before joining the military campaign of José María Morelos in 1810. His ability to speak indigenous languages allowed him to organize support among local communities in southern Mexico. Following the capture and execution of Morelos in 1815, he maintained resistance against royalist forces for several years through persistent guerrilla warfare in the Tierra Caliente region, refusing repeated offers of pardon from colonial authorities.
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In 1821, Guerrero negotiated with royalist commander Agustín de Iturbide to establish the Plan of Iguala. This agreement unified their forces into the Ejército Trigarante, which entered Mexico City on 27 September 1821, successfully ending Spanish rule. After the subsequent dissolution of the First Mexican Empire, he participated in the provisional Supreme Executive Power before his appointment to the presidency on 1 April 1829 following the resignation of Manuel Gómez Pedraza.
Presidency and Execution
During his short tenure, Guerrero navigated significant internal instability, including a threat of Spanish reconquest. On 15 September 1829, he issued a decree abolishing slavery. His term was cut short by the Plan of Jalapa, initiated by his vice president, Anastasio Bustamante, in December 1829. Deposed and driven into the south to lead a rebellion, he was eventually captured at Acapulco and executed by firing squad at Cuilápam on 14 February 1831.
Fast facts
- Born: 1782, Tixtla de Guerrero
- Died: 14 February 1831, Cuilápam de Guerrero
- Presidency: 1829-1829
- Military Rank: General
- Primary Occupation: Military personnel and politician
- Place of burial: Panteón de San Fernando
Questions readers ask
What significant social reform did Guerrero enact during his presidency?
He abolished slavery in Mexico on 15 September 1829.
How did Guerrero die?
After being betrayed and captured at Acapulco in 1831, he was sentenced by a court-martial and shot at Cuilápam.
Achievements
- Worked as military personnel and politician
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