Ο Vicente Guerrero (Vicente Ramón Guerrero Saldaña, 1782-1831) was one of the top leaders of Mexico’s war of independence and served as the country’s second president from 1829 to 1830. Born in the province of Tixtla, Guerrero State (which bears his name), he came from a humble family of mixed descent.

Guerrero actively participated in the struggle for independence under the leadership of José María Morelos, emerging as one of the most effective military leaders. In 1821, he participated in the Ayala Project that led to Mexico’s independence from Spain. As president, he supported reforms such as the abolition of slavery, making Mexico one of the first countries in the world to take this action.

Guerrero was a Freemason and a member of the York Press, reflecting his liberal and progressive beliefs. The York Press was popular in Mexico in the early 19th century.

Guerrero’s involvement in Freemasonry is consistent with the Brotherhood’s broader influence in the early Mexican Republic, where it formed political alliances and promoted independence, democracy and social reforms. His legacy as a Freemason includes his progressive policies, such as the abolition of slavery in Mexico in 1829, which aligned with Masonic principles of liberty and equality.

His presidency was interrupted by a coup and in 1831 he was summarily executed. Today he is considered a national hero of Mexico for his contribution to independence and his progressive visions.