Lorenzo Batlle y Grau

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Lorenzo Cristóbal Manuel Batlle y Grau (Montevideo, August 10, 1810 - Montevideo, May 8, 1887) was the President of Uruguay from 1868–1872 and the son of a wealthy merchant loyal to the Spanish crown. Lorenzo Batlle was one of the distinguished members of the Colorado Party. He served as Minister of War during the siege of Montevideo and was eventually elected president.

His presidency failed because of a pre-existing monetary crisis. His attempts to control the country failed and, as a result, a civil war and military uprising erupted, culminating in his presidency and ushering in an era of dictatorship. He died a poor man but was respected as an historical figure for his attempts to help the country.

His son, José Batlle y Ordóñez, went on to become president of Uruguay in 1903.

Preceded by Pedro Varela

President of Uruguay 1868–1872

Succeeded by Tomás Gomenzoro