In some respects the counterpart of Francia of Paraguay, in others both a medieval mystic and an enlightened ruler of modern type, he was a man of remarkable intellect, constructive ability, earnest patriotism, and disinterested zeal for orderliness and progress.

On his presidential sash were inscribed the words: "My Power in the Constitution"; but is real power lay in himself and in the system which he implanted.
Garcia Moreno had a varied career.

He had been a student of chemistry and other natural sciences.

He had spent his youth in exile in Europe, where he prepared himself for his subsequent career as a journalist and a university professor.

Through it all he had been an active participant in public affairs.