José Balta y Montero (Lima, April 25, 1814 – Lima, July 26, 1872) is a Peruvian soldier and politician who serves as the thirtieth President of Peru from 1868 to 1872.
He is the son of John Balta Bru and Agustina Montero Casafranca.
In 1865 he aids Mariano Ignacio Prado in the seizure of the presidency and serves in his administration.
In 1867, he in turn overthrows Prado.
As president, he re-establishes constitutional rule and undertakes vast projects for national improvement.
He grants a monopoly of guano export to a French company and obtains large loans in Europe, yet the lavish expenditures of his administration plunge Peru deep in debt.
Balta is deposed and shot by a disgruntled member of his own cabinet, Defense Minister Tomás Gutiérrez, during his subsequent coup d'état attempt.
