Francisco Montalvo y Ambulodi facts for kids
Francisco José Montalvo y Ambulodi (born 1754 in Havana, died 1822 in Madrid) was an important Spanish soldier and leader. He worked for Spain in its colonies. From 1813 to 1816, he was the governor and captain-general of a large area called New Granada. This area included modern-day Colombia, Panama, Venezuela, and Ecuador. Later, from 1816 to 1818, he became the viceroy of New Granada. During his time in charge, the people of New Granada were fighting for their independence from Spain.
Early Life and Career
Francisco Montalvo was a Criollo, meaning he was a Spaniard born in America. He joined the army in Spain when he was young. He served in different parts of South America and also in Santo Domingo. He was very good at his job and quickly moved up in rank. By 1795, he became a brigadier, which is a high military rank. He was also a knight of the Order of Santiago, a special Spanish order.
Leading New Granada
On May 30, 1813, Montalvo officially became the governor and captain-general of New Granada. He also became the president of the Audiencia Real, which was a high court. He took over from Benito Pérez Brito. At this time, the capital city was controlled by rebels who wanted independence. So, Montalvo set up his headquarters in Santa Marta.
At first, he was not called "viceroy." This was because the Spanish Constitution of 1812 had removed that title. But in 1816, King Ferdinand VII brought the title back. Montalvo was then promoted to viceroy on April 16, 1816. He was the most important Spanish leader in the colony during a time of great unrest. In 1815, he was promoted again to lieutenant general.
Montalvo tried to make a deal with the city of Cartagena against Simón Bolívar, a famous independence leader. But Cartagena refused his offer. On February 15, 1816, Montalvo's forces successfully took back Cartagena for Spain. Soon after, on February 24, many local leaders in Cartagena faced harsh consequences. On April 9, 1816, Montalvo announced an amnesty, which was a pardon for some people. During this period, many people who supported independence faced harsh consequences.
Later Years
In 1818, Francisco Montalvo was replaced as viceroy by Juan José de Sámano y Uribarri. Montalvo then returned to Spain. There, he continued to serve his country as a councilor of state until he passed away in 1822.
See also
In Spanish: Francisco José Montalvo y Ambulodi para niños
