Five different presidents will govern Ecuador during…

Five different presidents will govern Ecuador during the two decades of transition between Conservative and Liberal rule.

The first, Antonio Borrero, tries valiantly to return the nation to the rule of law, but, after only ten months in office, he is overthrown by the only military dictator of the period, Ignacio de Veintemilla.

Although he comes to power with the help of the old Liberal General Urvina, Veintemilla later evolves into a populist military dictator rather than a politician with any party or ideological affiliation.

He is extremely popular with his troops and able to woo the masses with employment on public works programs and large-scale public festivals and dances during holiday periods.

In office until 1883, Veintemilla enjoys a period of relative prosperity resulting primarily from increased maritime activity while Peru, Bolivia, and Chile are mired in the War of the Pacific.