Diego Portales was a prominent Chilean statesman and politician born on June 16, 1793. He played a crucial role in shaping modern Chile during the 19th century, particularly after the Chilean War of Independence. Portales served as Minister of War and Interior under President Manuel Bulnes and was instrumental in establishing a strong central government. Portales is often associated with the consolidation of the Chilean state and the promotion of economic development. His policies emphasized order and authority, which earned him both support and criticism. He was assassinated on January 6, 1837, but his legacy continues to influence Chilean politics today.