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Andrés Avelino Cáceres Dorregaray, born on November 10, 1836, in Ayacucho, is one of the most important military figures and politicians in Peruvian history. He is best known for his heroic role in the Peruvian resistance against Chilean occupation during the War of the Pacific (1879–1884), where he earned the nickname "Hero of the Resistance." Cáceres also served as president of Peru twice, from 1886 to 1890 and from 1894 to 1895, with both terms marked by significant political and economic challenges.
Cáceres began his military career at a young age, participating in Peru's civil wars in the 1850s. However, his reputation as a brave and effective military leader was cemented during the War of the Pacific. After the defeat of Peru's regular forces in 1881, Cáceres led the "Breña Campaign," a guerrilla warfare effort in the Peruvian highlands against Chilean troops. Despite having limited resources, his unyielding determination turned him into a legendary figure in Peruvian military history.
After the War of the Pacific ended and the Chilean forces withdrew, Cáceres entered politics. He became president in 1886, at a time when Peru was devastated by war, with a ruined economy and a deeply divided society. During his first term, Cáceres worked to rebuild the country and restore political and economic stability. He implemented reforms to modernize the government and negotiated agreements to restructure the national debt. Despite these efforts, his government faced internal political conflicts, and his support among the population waned over time.
In 1894, Cáceres returned to the presidency, but his second term was even more tumultuous. Increasing political instability, worsened by opposition from both civilian and military factions, along with the growing influence of political movements like APRA, led to widespread revolt. In 1895, Cáceres was forced to resign after a bloody civil war. He then went into exile in Europe for several years.
Despite his political struggles, Andrés Avelino Cáceres remains an iconic figure in Peru's history. He is revered not only for his military achievements but also for his determination to rebuild the country after the War of the Pacific. He died in Lima on October 10, 1923. Today, Cáceres is regarded as one of Peru's great national heroes, with numerous plazas, streets, and monuments named in his honor.