Francisco Javier de Lizana y Beaumont facts for kids

Quick facts for kids His Excellency Francisco Javier de Lizana y Beaumont
58th Viceroy of New Spain
In office 19 July 1809 – 8 May 1810
Preceded by	Pedro de Garibay
Succeeded by	Francisco Javier Venegas
Archbishop of Mexico See Mexico Enthroned 24 May 1802 Reign ended 1 January 1815 Predecessor Alonso Núñez de Haro Successor Pedro José de Fonte Orders Ordination 21 February 1796 Personal details Born 1750 Arnedo, La Rioja, Spain Died 6 March 1815 (aged 64–65) Mexico City Nationality Spanish Denomination Roman Catholic

Francisco Javier de Lizana y Beaumont (born in 1750 in Arnedo, Spain – died March 6, 1815, in Mexico City) was an important leader. He served as the Archbishop of Mexico. He also held the powerful position of Viceroy of New Spain from July 19, 1809, to May 8, 1810. A viceroy was like a governor who ruled a colony in the name of the king. New Spain was a large territory that included much of modern-day Mexico and parts of the United States.

Becoming an Archbishop

Lizana studied religion and law in Spain. In 1771, he earned a special degree in church and civil law. He began teaching at a university in 1772. Later, he became a bishop in different areas. In 1802, he was chosen to be the Archbishop of Mexico. He arrived in Mexico in January 1803.

Helping the Community

As archbishop, Lizana focused on helping people. He worked hard to improve social welfare. He made the Hospital of San Lázaro bigger and better. He also gave money to a poorhouse (Hospicio de Pobres) and a home for abandoned children (Casa de Niños Expósitos). At the University, he started a new course about church rules.

Serving as Viceroy

Lizana became viceroy during a difficult time. Spain was fighting against Napoleon. The previous viceroy, Pedro de Garibay, was old and easily influenced. So, a group in Spain decided Lizana should take over. They knew that many Catholics did not support Napoleon. This was because Napoleon had imprisoned Pope Pius VII.

Taking on New Responsibilities

Lizana officially became the temporary viceroy in February 1809. He asked his cousin, Juan Sáenz de Alfaro, to handle his church duties. This allowed Lizana to focus on leading New Spain. However, many people did not like Sáenz de Alfaro.

Protecting New Spain

As viceroy, Lizana took steps to protect the colony. He created new groups of local soldiers. He also brought in weapons from Britain. He took control of property in New Spain that belonged to Spanish nobles who supported Napoleon. From these actions, Lizana sent a lot of money back to Spain to help with the war. He even refused to take a salary for himself to help the war effort.

Facing Challenges

Lizana faced problems from people who wanted New Spain to be independent. Many secret writings and political groups began to appear. They wanted to break away from Spain. The previous viceroy had been removed by a group called the Audiencia. This made many people feel that peaceful change was not possible. They thought direct action was the only way.

Lizana knew about these groups but did not act against them. Because of this, some Spanish leaders accused him of supporting the local people, known as Criollos.

The Valladolid Conspiracy

A group planning for independence was found in Valladolid (Morelia, Michoacán). This group was led by Lieutenant José Mariano Michelena and Father Vicente de Santa María. They were arrested. Lizana ordered them to be brought to Mexico City so he could talk to them. The conspirators told Lizana they wanted to form a council to rule New Spain. They said they would do this in the name of King Ferdinand VII. Lizana did not find them guilty of a crime. He ordered them to be set free. This made the pro-Spanish leaders very angry.

Later Life and Death

Because of his actions and his age, the Spanish government removed Lizana from his role as viceroy. They ordered the Audiencia to govern until the new viceroy, Francisco Javier Venegas, arrived. Lizana continued to serve as the Archbishop of Mexico. He received an award called the Cross of Carlos III. He passed away on March 6, 1815, in Mexico City.

See also

In Spanish: Francisco Javier de Lizana y Beaumont para niños