Guadalupe Larriva facts for kids

Guadalupe Larriva (born 28 July 1956 – died 24 January 2007) was an important politician from Ecuador. She made history as the first woman to become the country's defense minister.

Life and Career

Guadalupe Larriva was born in Cuenca. She earned a special degree called a Doctor of Philosophy in Geography from the University of Cuenca. She was also a university professor.

Larriva led a political group called the Ecuadorian Socialist Party-Broad Front. In 2007, she was chosen by President Rafael Correa to be Ecuador's defense minister. This was a very important job. She was the first woman ever to hold this position in Ecuador. She was also the first civilian (someone not in the military) to be defense minister in 25 years.

Tragic Accident

Sadly, Guadalupe Larriva died in a helicopter crash on 24 January 2007. This happened near Manta Air Base in Ecuador. She had only been the defense minister for nine days.

Two helicopters from the army crashed during a night training exercise. Everyone on board both helicopters died. This included Larriva's 17-year-old daughter, Claudia Ávila, and five army officers.

Just two days before the accident, Larriva had announced an important decision. Ecuador would not continue its agreement with the United States Armed Forces. This agreement allowed US troops to use the Manta Air Base.

After Larriva's death, President Rafael Correa promised to appoint another woman as defense minister. He kept his promise. On 30 January 2007, Lorena Escudero took over the role. She was also from Cuenca and had been a university professor.

Images for kids

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  A bust (sculpture of the head and shoulders) of Guadalupe Larriva.

See also

In Spanish: Guadalupe Larriva para niños