José Canga Argüelles

He took an active part in the Spanish resistance to Napoleon in a civil capacity and was an energetic member of the cortes of 1812.

He continued at this post until the spring of 1821, distinguishing himself by the zeal and ability with which he sought to reform the finances of Spain.

It was high time; for the annual deficit was greater than the entire revenue itself, and landed and other property was, to an unheard-of extent, monopolized by the priests.

[1] The measures he proposed had been only partially enforced, when the action of the king with regard to the ministry, of which he was a member, obliged him to resign.

He did not return to Spain until 1829, and did not again appear in public life, being appointed keeper of the archives at Simancas.