Jose Manuel Balmaceda

Balmaceda won the presidential election as a liberal reformer. His presidency aimed to reduce the power of the conservative oligarchy and expand state control over resources.

Balmaceda's conflict with Congress over budget control escalated into a civil war. The Congressional forces, backed by the navy, defeated the presidential army. Balmaceda's defeat ended his presidency and led to a parliamentary system.

After the civil war defeat, Balmaceda took refuge in the Argentine embassy. He shot himself on September 19, 1891, leaving a letter defending his actions. His death marked the end of the presidentialist era.