Antonio Varas

Who was Antonio Varas?

Antonio Varas de la Barra was a Chilean political figure, statesman and conservative politician. He served several times as minister.

Antonio Varas was born in Cauquenes, the son of Miguel Varas Vallejo and of Agustina de la Barra Alarcón. Because his father was a royalist supporter, after independence all the family properties were confiscated, leaving them in the most complete destitution. Thanks to his brother José Miguel, he was able to complete his studies at the Instituto Nacional, where he met and befriended Manuel Montt and Ventura Cousiño, both of whom were his teachers. In time he became, first, philosophy teacher, later vice-principal and finally principal of that institute. During his tenure, he substantially improved the quality of education offered at that, the principal school in the country.

He started his political career when elected deputy for Chillán in 1842. He was later elected deputy for Cauquenes in 1846, and for Curicó in 1852. Varas was named Minister of the Interior and Foreign Affairs by President Manuel Bulnes, a position he retained under President Manuel Montt.