General Antonio Santa Anna was a mysterious and divisive leader who ruled Mexico. He held the president’s office, leading like a general in crucial situations. As a General struggling for the independence of Mexico, he was revered as a hero by soldiers. However, many Mexicans regard the General as having let the country down. Mexico lost half of its territory due to Santa Anna’s policies.
General Antonio Santa Anna continued his military career throughout his all life, even when he was president. Santa Anna was born into a well-known Spanish family in 1794 (Samponaro, 1983). Early military service in the war against independence rebels foreshadowed Santa Anna’s career. Santa Anna received command of the vital port of Veracruz from a royalist officer, Iturbide, which influenced his career. Santa Anna rose to political prominence on a national scale.
General Antonio Santa Anna was elected president, but although he wanted the title, he had no interest in governing. Valentin Gómez Farias, the vice president, took over responsibilities as president of the country (Samponaro, 1983). The General’s political choices caused chaos in Mexico’s life. Needing funds to suppress the revolutionary movement, Santa Ana sold part of Mexican territory to the United States. His rule was referred to as totalitarian.
Santa Anna revoked the Mexican constitution just in time for the Texas Revolution. The General sent troops up north to retake Texas from the Mexicans. They were defeated, and the independence of Texas was proclaimed. Santa Ana was urged to get ready to fend off further US aggression and retake Texas. It did not bring results, the war was lost, and his career ended.
In conclusion, General Antonio Santa Anna was a controversial figure. His circumstances led him to a career in the military. The General was a victorious general and wanted to further his career. He entered politics, continuing his involvement in military affairs. The General lived out the remainder of his days in exile, having devastating consequences for the people.
Reference
Samponaro, F. N. (1983). Santa Anna and the Abortive Anti-Federalist Revolt of 1833 in Mexico.The Americas, 40(1), 95-107. Web.