He began his political career as a Conservative, but was later a member of the National Party, of which he was one of the founders in 1857.
Because his father was a royalist supporter, after independence all the family properties were confiscated, leaving them in the most complete destitution.
Thanks to his brother José Miguel, he was able to complete his studies at the Instituto Nacional, where he met and befriended Manuel Montt and Buonaventura Cousiño, both of whom were his teachers.
During his tenure, he substantially improved the quality of education offered at that, the principal school in the country.
In 1876 was elected senator for Talca, in 1879 for Coquimbo and reelected for the same in 1882, position he held until his death.