Revolutionary and political leader (1783-1830) whose military campaigns against the Spanish were instrumental in the emergence of the independent nations of modern South America, including Bolivia, which was named in his honor. Manuscript DS in Spanish, signed “Bolivar,” one page both sides, 9 x 14.75, October 10, 1821. As "Liberator and President of the Republic of Columbia," Bolivar opens relations with Mexico by appointing a minister plenipotentiary. In full (translated): "Motivated by the most sincere desire to promote to the fullest extent the most perfect friendship, harmony, and good relations between the Government of the Republic over which I preside and the Supreme Government of the Mexican Empire, and convinced of the favorable disposition that exists on the part of that Government to contribute to such a useful and important purpose, through the means of a definite treaty which would assure the liberty and independence of both countries, and restore to them, in the eyes of the world, the political importance which they so rightly deserve because of their people and their resources, I hereby grant and confer upon Citizen Miguel Santa Maria the full and absolute power of Minister Plenipotentiary to the Supreme Government of the Mexican Government.
Trusting in his capability, zeal, faithfulness, and service rendered to the Republic, he is given this mandate and special order, exclusively, revoking any other which may have preceded: To proceed, in the name of the Republic of Colombia, to the court of the Supreme Government of the Empire of Mexico, and in the capacity of Minister Plenipotentiary, there, with solemn oath, confer, agree and sign with the Minister or Ministers which that Government may name and authorize for that purpose, and with full powers consummate a definite treaty with articles, stipulations, agreements, and any other acts which may be deemed appropriate. This is to be carried out with the same authority that I might exercise in accordance with the power entrusted to me by the Constitution of the Republic. Moreover, it is promised that all that the aforementioned Minister Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary stipulates, promises, and signs in accordance with the full powers which I have seen fit to confer upon him, will be honored and fulfilled. Likewise, he will request and have expedited the letters of ratification in due form, and have them delivered so that they may be approved in reasonable time." Prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by Bolivar, and countersigned by Pedro Gual as secretary of state and foreign relations. The ornate paper seal affixed beside his signature is folded but intact. In fine condition.
In 1821, Simon Bolivar appointed Miguel Santa Maria as plenipotentiary minister of Gran Colombia and sent him to Mexico with the mission of signing a treaty of friendship and trade. Shortly after arriving in Veracruz, on March 23, 1822, Santa Maria notified the Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel de Herrera of his mission and objective. On April 27, 1822, the Mexican Congress officially recognized Colombia and accepted the treaty proposal. The other signer, Pedro Gual Escandón, would go on to serve as president of Venezuela.
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