Ecuador's Early Republic: Flores, Debt, and Plutocracy

Biography of Juan José Flores

Juan José Flores, born in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, on 19 July 1801, died on Puná Island at 63 years old in October 1864. His childhood was poor and helpless. As an adolescent, without clear direction for his life, he joined the Spanish forces at 15 years old. His conduct was recognized in the practice of valor. He served as president from 1830 to 1834. He later held the presidency again, serving until 1845.

First Constituent Assembly of Ecuador

• Where it met: Riobamba
• When it met: On 14 August 1830
• Purpose: To establish the first constitution

Revolts of Juan José Flores

Chronology of the English Debt

1. Representatives were summoned to Bogotá to discuss joining Gran Colombia.
2. The English Debt is incurred.
3. Vicente Rocafuerte's government agrees to the debt.
4. The English Debt was canceled by our country during the dictatorial government of General Guillermo Rodríguez Lara.

The English Debt: 21% and 22 Million Pesos

The British Debt was allocated incorrectly. Ecuador's president did not have a representative at the meeting held in Bogotá. Furthermore, due to its small size and population compared to other countries, the minimum cost of the military campaign in Ecuador was set at 22 million pesos. This was a very large debt for Ecuador.

Key Events in Ecuadorian History (Post-Flores Era)

1. Antonio Elizalde and Diego Noboa compete as presidential candidates in a contested election.
2. Ascasubi concludes his term as Colonel, serving as Vice President in charge of Ecuador's presidency.
3. A coup led by General Urbina proclaims the supreme command of Diego Noboa.
4. A Constituent Assembly (the fifth in our history) legitimizes Diego Noboa's constitutional government.
5. Urbina, through another coup, rises to power.

Divisions within the Liberal Domain

The Liberal Domain is divided into two sub-periods: the Radical Liberal and the Plutocratic Domain.

Remembering November 15, 1922: The Guayaquil Massacre

On November 15, 1922, an uncontrollable public outcry erupted due to inflation and hunger. The authorities used force, silencing the protesting voices of the people with gunfire. This tragic event is remembered as the Guayaquil massacre.

What is Plutocracy?

Plutocracy is a political system where state government is mostly in the hands of the rich. This involves the influence of wealthy individuals in political life who primarily seek their own benefit, often disregarding the poverty experienced in our country.

The Plutocratic Period (1912-1931)

• 1912 - 1916: Second Presidency of Leónidas Plaza
• 1916 - 1920: Presidency of Dr. Alfredo Baquerizo
• 1920 - 1924: Presidency of Dr. José Luis Tamayo
• 1924 - 1925: Presidency of Dr. Gonzalo Córdova Rivera
• 1925 - 1926: Provisional Heptavirate (Seven Members)
• 1926: Provisional Pentavirate
• 1926 - 1931: Presidency of Dr. Isidro Ayora Cueva