José Manuel Balmaceda

José Manuel Balmaceda was president of Chile from 1886 to 1891 and the central political figure in the civil war that ended his government.

Balmaceda promoted public works, education and stronger state direction of nitrate revenues. Conflict with Congress over ministerial responsibility, spending and executive authority became constitutional deadlock. After congressional forces won the 1891 civil war, Balmaceda took refuge in the Argentine legation and died by suicide.

My Name Is Emilia del Valle sends Emilia to Chile as a reporter during the civil war caused by Balmaceda’s confrontation with Congress. The president’s crisis provides the political framework for her investigation of family origins and national identity.