3-003-985 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Senor Don José Joaquin Perez, the new President of Chili [sic], 1861. 'It is hoped that his known moderation, his marked capacity for and experience in public affairs, will enable him during his five years of office to guide the bark of State with prudence and energy. In the debates in which he has taken part...his calmness, moderation, and quickness of perception shone conspicuously, equalled only by his promptness in openly and fearlessly opposing all measures bearing semblance of injustice, and at the same time lending his valuable assistance to the furtherance of such measures as in his opinion tended to the good of his country. In the Chambers of 1849, when the projects were discussed of granting extraordinary powers to the Executive, and declaring the refractory provinces in a state of siege, Perez, as First Minister of State, eloquently defended the policy of the Government, attacked by revolution and insurrection. Since the events of 1859, when the constitutional Government triumphed over the hordes who had raised the standard of rebellion in almost every province of the Republic, the revolutionary mind has remained in a state of prostration and despair. Such are the auspices under which the new President of Chili enters upon office'. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.