Barrios, Justo Rufino, << BAHR ryohs, HOOS toh roo FEE noh >> (1835-1885), transformed Guatemala into a progressive nation. He became president in 1873, and ruled the country with an iron hand for more than 12 years.
Barrios was nicknamed the Reformer. He improved roads, built bridges, and established railroads, hospitals, and a telegraph system in Guatemala. Barrios also reorganized the country’s school system, founded colleges, introduced many laws, and settled a boundary dispute with Mexico.
The great dream of Barrios’ life was to form all the countries of Central America into a union. When he could not accomplish this by peaceful methods, he decided to use force. He was killed on April 2, 1885, while leading his troops against those of El Salvador. He was born in Quezaltenango, Guatemala.
