Gloria Salguero Gross Salvadoran agribusinesswoman and right-wing politician. Date of Birth: 24.09.1941 Country: Salvador

1. Mercedes Gloria Salguero Gross: A Salvadoran Political Force
2. Early Life and Education
3. Founding of ARENA
4. Constituent Assembly and Democratic Reforms
5. Parliamentary Career and ARENA Leadership
6. Disagreement with President Flores
7. Presidential Ambition
8. Legacy and Honors
9. Personal Life and Character
10. Hobbies and Inspirations

Mercedes Gloria Salguero Gross: A Salvadoran Political Force

Born into a prominent landowning family, Mercedes Gloria Salguero Gross emerged as a formidable figure in Salvadoran society. With a deep passion for agriculture and a resolute conservative outlook, she became a key player in the country's political landscape.

Early Life and Education

Born on a coffee plantation in Santa Ana, Salguero Gross was instilled with a love of the land. Her father, a coffee planter, instilled in her a strong sense of independence and a dedication to the agricultural industry. She pursued an economic education at Central American University and studied various subjects in Western Europe, broadening her intellectual horizons.

Founding of ARENA

In 1979, the Salvadoran Civil War erupted, fueling political unrest. Salguero Gross, a staunch opponent of agrarian reform, joined forces with Major Roberto d'Aubuisson, the leader of the ultra-right death squads. On September 30, 1981, she played a pivotal role in founding the Nationalist Republican Alliance (ARENA), a party that became a powerful force in Salvadoran politics.

Constituent Assembly and Democratic Reforms

In 1982, Salguero Gross was elected to the Constituent Assembly, a body tasked with drafting a new constitution. As an anti-communist with democratic leanings, she navigated the complexities of ARENA's radical right-wing agenda. She actively participated in shaping the Constitution, contributing to the inclusion of democratic safeguards while advocating against agrarian reform.

Parliamentary Career and ARENA Leadership

Salguero Gross served as a deputy in the Legislative Assembly from 1985 onwards. She held leadership positions as Secretary and Vice President before becoming President of the Assembly and ARENA from 1994 to 1997. During her tenure, she pursued a policy of national reconciliation while emphasizing conservative principles.

Disagreement with President Flores

In 2001, Salguero Gross's differences with President Francisco Flores led her to leave ARENA. She founded the Popular Republican Party, which failed to gain electoral support. She later rejoined ARENA and held prominent positions in the government of President Antonio Saca, including Presidential Commissioner for Governance.

Presidential Ambition

In 2012, Salguero Gross sought the presidential nomination from ARENA for the 2014 election. However, Norman Quijano was selected by the party, who ultimately lost the election.

Legacy and Honors

Salguero Gross passed away in 2010, leaving a profound legacy in Salvadoran politics. She played a significant role in ending the civil war and promoting democratic development. In 2010, the Legislative Assembly bestowed upon her the honorary title of "Best Daughter of El Salvador."

Personal Life and Character

Salguero Gross remained unmarried and childless, stating that she would have inevitably divorced after a few years. She maintained close relationships with her nieces and nephews. Known for her strong personality inherited from her father, she was also compassionate and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Hobbies and Inspirations

Outside of politics, Salguero Gross enjoyed classical music, dancing, swimming, and football. She was particularly fond of nature walks and sunset views. She considered herself a romantic and admired Margaret Thatcher as the epitome of a female politician. During a visit to the United Kingdom, she made it a condition to meet with Thatcher, receiving a one-hour audience with the former British Prime Minister.