The controversial downfall of Chilean President Jose Manuel Balmaceda Fernandez (1886-91) represents the only occasion when power is transferred by force between 1830 and 1924.

This event results in the most important alteration in the constitutional system between 1833 and 1925.

In many respects, the Balmaceda episode is the culmination of two trends: the growing strength of Congress in relation to the president, and the expanding influence of foreign capital in the mining zone.

In essence, the rebels oppose Balmaceda's plans to expand the role of the executive branch in the political and economic systems.