José María Urvina



José María Mariano Segundo de Urvina y Viteri (19 March 1808 – 4 September 1891) was President of Ecuador from 13 July 1851 to 16 October 1856. He was born in Quillan San Migelito (Pillaro-Tungurahua) on 19 March 1808.

Name spelling
The correct spelling of his name has been cause of confusion, since his banker son Francisco Urbina Jado wrote it "Urbina" instead of the original "Urvina".

Education and career
José María Urvina pursued his primary education in the village of his birth. He then attended the Navy School in Guayaquil. He was notorious among his classmates from whom he obtained friendship and consideration.

His competence and courage in the naval combat of Punta de Mapelo rose him above other members of the group. He was the aide-camp of Juan Jose Flores. In his career he demonstrated his vocation, reaching the degree of General of the Republic.

Political life

 * President of the Legislative Chamber
 * Congressman for the province of Guayas
 * Governor of Guayaquil
 * Chargé d'Affairs of Ecuador in Bogota
 * Supreme Chief from 17 July 1851 to 17 July 1852
 * Elaboration of the sixth National Constitution.
 * President of Ecuador from 1852 to 1856
 * Abolishment of Indian and black slavery in Ecuador, on 25 September 1852.