By Luis Felipe Nieto
In January 1858, the city of Guanajuato was provisionally declared the capital of the country by President of the Republic Benito Juárez. This took place during his stay in Guanajuato, from January 19-February 13, 1858. Juárez had fled to Guanajuato, seeking a safe haven during the political turmoil, when others claimed to be president of Mexico. On January 19, 1858, in Guanajuato City, he was officially named President of Mexico. At the same time, he declared the city of Guanajuato the provisional capital of the Republic. He attempted to organize his government and cabinet there, and named Melchor Ocampo Minister of Relations and War, Manuel Ruiz Minister of Justice, Guillermo Prieto Finance Minister, León Guzmán Minister of Public Works, Anastasio Parrodi head of the army, and Santos Degollado Minister of the Interior.
From Guanajuato, President Juárez sent out his first national manifesto on January 19, 1858. He called on the Mexican people to join his cause, which he considered just and representing the will of the people. On February 13, 1858, because of the circumstances of war and ahead of the imminent advance of Generals Osollo and Miramón, Benito Juarez left Guanajuato and set out for Guadalajara.
Taken from: “Vive Guanajuato. Mx”
