Manuel Torres (diplomat)

Manuel Torres (1762-1822) was a Colombian diplomat and patriot who played a crucial role in securing recognition of Colombia's independence from Spain by the United States.

Torres was born in Cartagena de Indias, in what is now Colombia. He was a lawyer and a member of the Cartagena cabildo (city council). He was involved in the independence movements in Cartagena beginning in 1810. Following the reconquest of New Granada by Spanish forces, Torres fled to the United States in 1816.

In the United States, he initially worked to raise awareness of the plight of the South American revolutionaries. He cultivated relationships with influential Americans, including members of Congress and the administration of President James Monroe. Through tireless lobbying and skillful diplomacy, Torres presented the case for recognizing the independence of the newly forming republics of South America.

In 1822, Torres was officially received by President Monroe as the chargé d'affaires of Colombia. This marked the de facto recognition of Colombia's independence by the United States, making the U.S. the first nation to formally recognize Colombia as a sovereign state. This recognition was a significant victory for the independence movements throughout South America.

Torres died shortly after achieving this diplomatic success, passing away in Philadelphia in July 1822. His efforts were instrumental in laying the foundation for future relations between Colombia and the United States. His legacy is remembered in both countries as a champion of South American independence.