Born in the state of Vera Cruz in 1794, Santa Anna embarked on
his long career in the army at age 16 as a cadet. He fought for a time
for the Spanish against Mexican independence, but along with many
other army officers switched sides in 1821 to help install Augustin
de Iturbide as head of state of an independent Mexico.
He later rebelled against the government, gained considerable
backing. By 1833, he was elevated to president of Mexico in a
democratic election. He soon determined, however, that Mexico
was not ready for democracy and pronounced himself dictator.
Santa Anna was remembered as a particularly ruthless opponent
by the Texans. Despite this, he was allowed to return to Mexico
after his capture at the Battle of San Jacinto.
After his return to Mexico, Santa Anna participated in the
Mexican War and in 1853 sold territory to the United States including
that area known as the Gadsden Purchase.
Santa Anna spent repeated periods of exile in the Caribbean.
Upon one return to Mexico in February 1864, he promptly was
deported by General Achille Bazaine for failing to abide by the
terms of the agreement allowing his reentry. Santa Anna was
imprisoned in 1867 then exiled until 1874, when he returned
to Mexico under a general amnesty. He died in poverty in
Mexico City on June 20, 1876.