Simón Bolívar proclaimed dictator of Peru

Background. The Peruvian congress initially refused Colombian assistance but subsequently requested Bolívar to assume command of their forces in 1823. Political tensions escalated when Riva Agüero, who plotted with Royalists, was betrayed by his officers and exiled from Peru in November 1823. These events created a power vacuum that necessitated stronger executive authority for the independence movement.

Political Context. In early 1824, Bolívar was bedridden with fever. During this period, Tagle defected to the Royalists, taking control of the garrison and city of Callao, and briefly occupied Lima. This military setback and the loss of the capital prompted the Peruvian congress to grant Bolívar dictatorial powers to restore order and continue the war effort.

Aftermath. Following his appointment, Bolívar reoccupied Lima in December 1824. He subsequently initiated a siege of Callao that lasted until January 1826. The Peruvian congress extended his dictatorship for another year in February 1825, although Bolívar attempted to resign his offices in early 1825, a resignation that was not accepted by the congress.