William Walker overthrown in Nicaragua (1857)

William Walker, an American mercenary who seized power in Nicaragua, was overthrown by a Central American coalition. His forces suffered defeats at Rivas in 1856 and faced massive defections and disease. The coalition, including Honduran General Florencio Xatruch, pressured Walker into surrendering to the U.S. Navy in May 1857, ending his rule.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Walker arrived in Nicaragua in 1855 to support the Democratic Party. He captured Granada and established a government, holding real power despite President Patricio Rivas. Central American nations, particularly Costa Rica, mobilized against him. The coalition included forces from Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala, aiming to expel Walker from power.

Military Campaign. The Costa Rican army defeated Walker's forces at the Second Battle of Rivas in April 1856. Later, José Joaquín Mora Porras became Commandant General-in-Chief of the Allied Armies. Walker's army was weakened by defections and cholera. In December 1856, Henningsen burned Granada before escaping, highlighting the coalition's pressure on Walker's strongholds.

Surrender and Aftermath. Walker surrendered to U.S. Navy Commander Charles Henry Davis on May 1, 1857, under pressure from Central American armies. He was repatriated. General Florencio Xatruch, who led the Honduran expeditionary force, made a triumphant entrance to Comayagua on June 12, 1857, following the victory.

People involved

Sources

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