Desiderio Arias Álvarez (1872–1931)[1] was a notable soldier and caudillo who gained a significant following throughout the northern band of the Dominican Republic, especially in the Montecristi region.

His parents were Tomas Arias and María Eugenia Álvarez,[1] and his brothers, Evangelista and Francisco.

While still young, he moved to Montecristi, where he soon began working with his relative Juan Isidro Jiménes in the commercial house of J.I.

Because of his performance and connections, President Juan Isidro Jimenes Pereyra appointed him to the position of regional assistant.

On 1 January 1902, Arias married Simeona Castro, better known as Pomona, sister of the general Andrés Navarro, a known politician and military caudillo of the northwestern band, and one of the key supporters of President Jimenes.