William Walker (filibuster)

William Walker by Brady

William Walker (May 8, 1824 – September 12, 1860) was an American physician, lawyer, journalist, and mercenary who organized several filibustering expeditions into Latin America with the intent of establishing English-speaking colonies under his personal control. He became president of the Republic of Nicaragua in 1856 and ruled until 1857, when he was defeated by a coalition of Central American armies. Walker was executed by the government of Honduras in 1860.

Early Life

William Walker was born in Nashville, Tennessee. He was the son of James Walker and Mary Norvell Walker. Walker graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nashville at the age of 14. He then traveled to Europe to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Heidelberg. After returning to the United States, he practiced medicine in Philadelphia before studying law and becoming a journalist.

Filibustering Expeditions

Baja California and Sonora

In 1853, Walker led a group of 45 men to La Paz, the capital of the sparsely populated Baja California Peninsula. He declared the region an independent Republic of Lower California, with himself as president. Walker then moved his operations to Sonora, declaring it part of the new Republic of Sonora. However, Walker's forces were eventually driven out by Mexican troops, and he returned to the United States to face trial for violating the Neutrality Act of 1794. He was acquitted by a sympathetic jury.

Nicaragua

In 1855, Walker was invited by Nicaraguan liberals to assist in their civil war against the conservative government. Walker and his men, known as "filibusters," quickly took control of the country. In 1856, Walker declared himself president of Nicaragua. His regime was recognized by the United States, but his policies, including the reintroduction of slavery, alienated many Nicaraguans and neighboring countries. A coalition of Central American armies, supported by the Vanderbilt steamship company, eventually defeated Walker's forces. Walker surrendered to the U.S. Navy and was repatriated.

Final Expedition and Execution

In 1860, Walker attempted another expedition, this time to Honduras. He was captured by the Honduran government and executed by firing squad on September 12, 1860.

Legacy

William Walker remains a controversial figure in the history of Central America. While some view him as a symbol of American expansionism and Manifest Destiny, others see him as a ruthless opportunist who brought suffering to the regions he sought to control.

See Also

• Filibuster (military)
• Republic of Sonora
• Republic of Lower California
• Nicaragua
• Honduras
• Manifest Destiny