Antonio Alcala Galiano Spanish politician, Freemason, writer Date of Birth: 22.06.1789 Country: Spain

1. Early Life and Involvement in the Resistance
2. Leader of the Exaltados
3. Exile and Return
4. Cabinet Positions and Recognition

Early Life and Involvement in the Resistance

In the turbulent years following the Napoleonic Wars in Spain, Mariano Alcalá Galiano emerged as a prominent figure in the resistance movement. As a member of a Masonic lodge in Cádiz, he played a pivotal role in the military uprising led by Rafael del Riego y Núñez in 1820, which restored the constitutional regime in Spain.

Leader of the Exaltados

During the revolution that raged from 1820 to 1823, Alcalá Galiano became a leading member of the Exaltados faction, advocating for radical reforms. He served as a deputy in the Cortes from 1822 to 1823, where he actively opposed conservative policies.

Exile and Return

Following the defeat of the revolution, Alcalá Galiano was forced to flee into exile in England. He remained abroad until the amnesty granted in 1834 allowed him to return to Spain. Upon his return, he joined the Moderate Party, known as the Moderados.

Cabinet Positions and Recognition

In 1834, Alcalá Galiano was appointed Minister of the Navy. Three decades later, in 1865, he reached the pinnacle of his political career when he became Minister of Economy of Spain. His contributions to Spanish politics and his unwavering support for constitutional government earned him considerable recognition and respect.