Mariano Herencia Zevallos was a Peruvian politician who played a key role during a critical period of transition in Peru's history. Born in 1820 in Huancavelica, he is best known for serving as interim president of Peru in 1872, following the assassination of President-elect José Balta. His brief presidency came during a time of great political instability and change in the country.
Herencia Zevallos had a career as a public servant and politician, rising through various government positions. His influence grew in the 1860s, a time when Peru was frequently plagued by internal conflicts and power struggles. He became vice president under the administration of José Balta, who was elected in 1868. When Balta was assassinated in 1872 as part of a coup led by Colonel Tomás Gutiérrez, Herencia Zevallos suddenly found himself at the head of the state as interim president.
Gutiérrez's coup was poorly received by the public and led to widespread uprisings against the conspirators. After Gutiérrez's fall, Herencia Zevallos assumed the role of provisional president, overseeing the transition of power. His term was brief, but he played a crucial role in stabilizing the country after the coup attempt and organizing elections to ensure a peaceful transfer of power.
Mariano Herencia Zevallos soon handed over the presidency to Manuel Pardo, who became Peru's first democratically elected civilian president. This transition marked a turning point in Peruvian politics, with civilians beginning to rise to prominent government positions that had previously been dominated by the military.
After his short tenure in office, Herencia Zevallos retired from public life and focused on private activities. He passed away in 1873, shortly after leaving office.
Although his presidency was brief, Mariano Herencia Zevallos is recognized for his vital role in maintaining political stability in Peru following the assassination of José Balta. He is seen as a transitional figure who helped usher in civilian governance in Peru, marking the end of an era of military dominance in the country's political sphere.