Santana responds to a general discontent prompted mainly by the deteriorating currency and economy by resigning the presidency in February 1848 and retiring to his finca (ranch) in El Seibo.

He is replaced in August 1848 by minister of war Manuel Jimenez, whose tenure ends in May 1849.

The violent sequence of events that culminate in Jimenez's departure begins with a new invasion from Haiti, this time led by self-styled emperor Faustin Soulouque.

Santana returns to prominence at the head of the army that checks the Haitian advance at Las Carreras in April 1849.

As the Haitians retire, Santana presses his advantage against Jimenez, taking control of Santo Domingo and the government on May 30, 1849.