Camilo Torres

Born in Popayan on November 22, 1766 - Died in Santafé on October 5, 1816

Son of an aristocratic family, he traveled to the New Granada metropolis. He studied Latin, Greek, mathematics, theology, philosophy and rhetoric at the Colegio de Rosario, which appointed him a counselor, professor and vice chancellor. 

He was received as a lawyer of the Royal Audience and advisor to the Cabildo of Santafé, where he earned the respect of viceroys and listeners and was considered the best jurist of his time, wrote a memorial of grievances where he speaks of the mismanagement of the Spanish empire. On July 20 he obtained the appointment of Viceroy Amar y Borbón to preside over the Government Board. He confronted Nariño intellectually. He predicted the eternal separation of Spain and independence, and was captured by General Juan Sémano and executed the same as his cousin Fracisco José de Caldas.

 His head was displayed on the outskirts of the city, enclosed in an iron cage.