Juan H.J. Rojes

Juan Heriberto Justin Rojes y Pérez (April 19, 1849 - May 19, 1912) was a Dalanic politician, who served as President of Dania from 5 September 1907 to 31 May 1911.
== Early life and career ==
Juan Heriberto Justin Rojes y Pérez was born on 19 April 1849, in Pasamas, Spanish Dania. He was the son of Pedro Rojes, a farmer from Centralitan, and Manuela Pérez, an indigenous woman from Monteverde. Despite his humble origins, Manuel grew up with a thirst for knowledge and used it to become well-read in both Spanish and English literature. 
At the age of 38, he left San Pedro to join the Second War of Independence against the Spanish forces. During this time he rose through the ranks and eventually earned the title of Colonel. After achieving independence in 1888, Rojes returned to San Pedro where he took a job at an iron foundry owned by his cousin Francisco Rojes. It was here that he first became exposed to socialism as Francisco was a member of the recently formed Workers' Party. Rojes quickly joined and soon moves to Likavra.
== Political career ==
In 1897, Rojes entered the House of Representatives on behalf of the Workers' Party. As a representative for Congress he voted for legislation that increased workers' rights such as shorter working hours and better pay. 
In 1901, President Iván Agramonte appointed Rojes as First Minister of Dania which made him responsible for overseeing all government affairs. During his tenure as First Minister he focused on improving education reform by creating more schools and universities throughout Dania while also implementing social welfare programs such as free healthcare clinics for those living in poverty stricken areas.
== Presidency ==
In 1907, Rojes assumed the presidency after his predecessor Iván Agramonte was assassinated by an anarchist. Rojes promised several reforms and change but his presidency ended up being largely unsuccessful due to internal divisions within his own cabinet as well as increasing tensions with neighboring Nic-Dan over trade issues and border disputes.
Rojes continued the New Danian War of Independence, but gave New Dania and Bursan independence in October 1908.
Rojes was known for his fiery rhetoric during speeches but he also had a reputation as a heavy drinker and gambler which did not help him win favor with many citizens or members of congress. As a result, Rojes lost support from both sides of politics and he decided not seek re-election in 1911. 
== Death and legacy ==
Juan H.J. Rojes died on 19 May 1912, at age 62, due to illness caused by cirrhosis of the liver brought on by years of heavy drinking. He is remembered today for his passionate advocacy for workers’ rights and social reform during both his tenure as First Minister and President despite the fact that his presidency ultimately failed to bring about meaningful change to Dania during this time period.
Category:1849 births
Category:1912 deaths
Category:19th-century Dalanic politicians
Category:20th-century Dalanic politicians
Category:Workers' Party politicians (Dania)
Category:Presidents of Dania
Category:First Ministers of Dania