BERNARDO O'HIGGINS

I have solemnly renounced all political power. I shall never reassume it – never – even should the votes of the nation seek to restore me to it. This I have publicly declared and I do not go back on my word.

Aristocracy is naturally abhorrent to me, and adored equality is my idol.

They are against nature and the principles of liberty

Now I am a private citizen, During the time of my government I have wielded almost absolute powers. I ask you to believe me that whatever wrongs I may have done have been the result of difficult conditions in which it was my lot to govern, and not the fruit of evil passions. I am ready to answer any accusations you wish to make against me. And if the wrongs I have done can be purged by my blood, then take of me the vengeance you will. Here is my breast!

I know nothing of these torturous arts by which a man may aspire to govern a state torn by envy, parties, and factions. This evil is almost always unavoidable in newly fledged governments, which must look to themselves for sustenance and growth

In times of revolution, it is dangerous to carry through fundamental changes suddenly, however reasonable and desirable they may be in themselves. This is to risk losing everything.

Chile announces a new refuge in these countries for the industry, the friendship, and all the citizens of the globe

My experience and what scant understanding of politics I possess have convinced me that our peoples will only find well-being under compulsion; but my repugnance for compulsion is so great that I am loath to employ it even to achieve their well-being.

Chile announces a new refuge in these countries for the industry, the friendship, and all the citizens of the globe

Aristocracy is naturally abhorrent to me, and adored equality is my idol.

In times of revolution, it is dangerous to carry through fundamental changes suddenly, however reasonable and desirable they may be in themselves. This is to risk losing everything.

They are against nature and the principles of liberty

Now I am a private citizen, During the time of my government I have wielded almost absolute powers. I ask you to believe me that whatever wrongs I may have done have been the result of difficult conditions in which it was my lot to govern, and not the fruit of evil passions. I am ready to answer any accusations you wish to make against me. And if the wrongs I have done can be purged by my blood, then take of me the vengeance you will. Here is my breast!

I know nothing of these torturous arts by which a man may aspire to govern a state torn by envy, parties, and factions. This evil is almost always unavoidable in newly fledged governments, which must look to themselves for sustenance and growth

My experience and what scant understanding of politics I possess have convinced me that our peoples will only find well-being under compulsion; but my repugnance for compulsion is so great that I am loath to employ it even to achieve their well-being.

I have solemnly renounced all political power. I shall never reassume it – never – even should the votes of the nation seek to restore me to it. This I have publicly declared and I do not go back on my word.