Portales brings the Chilean military under civilian control by rewarding loyal generals, cashiering troublemakers, and promoting a victorious war against the Peru-Bolivia Confederation (1836-39).

After defeating Peru and Bolivia, Chile dominates the Pacific Coast of South America.

The victory over its neighbors gives Chile and its new political system a psychological boost.

Chileans experience a surge of national enthusiasm and cohesion behind a regime accepted as legitimate and efficacious.