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Serapio Calderón Chirinos, born in 1843 in Paucartambo, in the Cusco region, was a relatively little-known figure in Peruvian political history who briefly served as provisional president of Peru in 1904. His term was very short, lasting from May to September 1904, and his primary role was to ensure a peaceful transition of power following the death of President Manuel Candamo, who passed away shortly after taking office.
Calderón was a lawyer and politician with a steady career in the legal and political circles of Cusco before rising to the national stage. He held various positions in public administration and became a member of the Civilista Party, the dominant party of the time, founded by Manuel Pardo. As president of the Peruvian Senate, Calderón was next in line to assume the presidency after Candamo's passing.
His provisional presidency was mainly focused on preparing elections and ensuring a smooth transfer of power. Calderón did not introduce major reforms or significant changes during his brief term, instead concentrating on maintaining institutional stability and managing the government’s day-to-day affairs. He quickly called for new elections, which resulted in the election of José Pardo y Barreda, who succeeded Candamo as the constitutional president.
While Serapio Calderón did not leave a significant mark on Peruvian history, his role as provisional president is often seen as an example of orderly democratic transition at a time when coups and military uprisings were common in Latin America. Calderón passed away in 1922 and is remembered primarily for his commitment to institutional stability and adherence to the Peruvian constitution.