Born in Arica on August 13, 1755, Hipólito Unanue first studied philosophy, humanities, and law in Arequipa, before moving to Lima, where he continued his studies in natural sciences at the San Marcos University. Over the next years, he became a respected member not only of the medical community but also of the intellectual scene while enjoying a high reputation with the viceregal administration. In 1790, he co-founded the Academic Society of Lovers of the Country which published the Mercurio Peruano, a highly popular newspaper focusing on medicine, natural science, history and economics not only piquing interest for scientific knowledge and work but also for the first time establishing a concept of Peru as an independent and modern nation. Among many other publications, he wrote government reports, “The political, ecclesiastical, and military guide of Peru” and his “Observations on the climate of Lima and its influences in organized beings”. In 1815, he created the San Fernando College of Medicine and, a year later, received the title Honorary Physician of the Royal House of Her Majesty. However, during the early stage of the independence struggle and after publishing “The evils of civil war and duty of the writers” he fell from grace.

In 1821, after the proclamation of independence, San Martin appointed Unanue Minister of Finance. Under Simon Bolivar, he became Peru’s Minister of Government and Foreign Relations and presided over the council of government. He issued the first commercial regulations, established a customs infrastructure and boosted the agriculture, mining and manufacturing industry. He rebuilt schools destroyed during the war and founded other educational institutions in Lima and in the provinces. Unanue organized the General Directorate of Studies and created societies with cultural purposes such as the Philharmonic Society and the Museum of Natural Sciences. And he created the first public welfare board, founded hospitals and promoted vaccinations to eradicate smallpox. In June 1826, he became the Minister of Justice and Ecclesiastical Business. At 78, Hipólito Unanue died on July 15, 1833.