Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera y Arboleda (1798–1878) is a Colombian general and political figure.
He is president of Colombia four times.
The first time is as president of the Republic of New Granada from 1845 to 1849.
During the Colombian Civil War of 1860-1862 he leads liberal forces in a civil war against conservative factions.
After the liberals win, a new, federalist constitution is implemented, which establishes a two-year presidency, and the nation is renamed the United States of Colombia.
Mosquera serves twice as president of the new government.
From 1861 to 1862, he serves in a non-elected, interim manner, while the constitution is written.
From 1862 to 1864, he serves in an elected manner.
He has a fourth term from 1866 to 1867.
Due to the liberal reforms carried out under his leadership, he is considered one of the most important persons in Colombian history of the 19th century.
Due to serious facial wounds received during a battle in 1824, he requires the use of a metal prosthesis in his jaw.
This affects his ability to speak, which is marked by blowing and whistling sounds.
As a result, Mosquera is derisively nicknamed "Mascachochas" (Gaga-chew) by some of his contemporary critics.
