Francisco Gómez

Who was Francisco Gómez?

Francisco Gómez de Altamirano y de Elizondo was a Central American licenciado, military officer and Liberal politician. From November 15, 1835 to February 1, 1836 he was chief of state of the state of El Salvador within the Central American Federation.

Gómez's parents were José Luis Goméz de Altamirano y Gazo, a Peninsular, and Bartola de Elizondo, a native of Cartago. He was sent to Metapán, El Salvador as a child.

Later he studied law in Guatemala, becoming a licenciado. Having accumulated some money, he moved back to Metapán, where he married Catalina Rodríguez. He also brought his father, now widowed, to live with him. He was part of the city council of Metapán in November 1811, when the first independence revolt broke out. He joined with the other council members in opposing this, although he was secretly a supporter of independence.

He moved to San Salvador, where he also became a member of the city council. He edited the Instrucciones, in which he expressed very liberal ideas.

Upon the proclamation of independence, he joined the patriot cause and fought in the war against Imperial Mexico. He attained the rank of captain.