Colombian Civil War (1860–1862)

The Colombian Civil War of 1860–1862, also known as the War of the Supremes (though this title is more commonly associated with the earlier conflict of 1839-1842), was a conflict fought between the Conservative Party government of President Mariano Ospina Rodríguez and the Liberal Party-led forces under General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera.

Causes:

The war stemmed from deep-seated political and ideological divisions between Conservatives and Liberals. The Conservative Party, generally favoring a strong central government, the protection of the Catholic Church's influence, and traditional values, was increasingly at odds with the Liberal Party's advocacy for federalism, separation of church and state, and individual liberties. Ospina Rodríguez's Conservative administration was perceived by the Liberals as authoritarian and centralizing power at the expense of regional autonomy. Economic policies also fueled the conflict, with disagreements over tariffs, trade, and the role of the state in the economy. Mosquera, a former president and prominent Liberal figure, emerged as the leader of the rebellion, rallying support from various regional factions dissatisfied with the Conservative government.

Course of the War:

The war began with Mosquera's declaration of rebellion in May 1860. He quickly gained control of several key regions, including Cauca and Santander. The conflict was marked by intense fighting and widespread devastation across the country. Battles were fought in various locations, including Bogotá, which was captured by Mosquera's forces in 1861. Ospina Rodríguez was overthrown and imprisoned. Mosquera established a provisional government and continued to consolidate his power.

Outcome and Consequences:

The war ended with the victory of the Liberal forces and the establishment of a federalist republic under Mosquera's leadership. This led to the creation of the United States of Colombia, a decentralized state characterized by greater regional autonomy. The war significantly weakened the Conservative Party and ushered in a period of Liberal dominance in Colombian politics. However, the instability and violence of the conflict further exacerbated existing social and economic divisions, contributing to future conflicts and political instability in Colombia. The new federal structure, while intended to address regional grievances, also presented challenges to effective governance and national unity. The conflict’s long-term effects included a weakening of the central government and the rise of regional power brokers, setting the stage for subsequent civil wars and political upheavals in the late 19th century.