Treaty of Pasto Transfers Cauca to New Granada

The Treaty of Pasto marked a pivotal agreement between New Granada and Ecuador, resulting in the transfer of the Department of Cauca to New Granada. This treaty emerged from a backdrop of internal strife within Ecuador, where the armed forces were largely composed of discontented veterans from Venezuela and Colombia. These veterans, feeling neglected and unpaid, were reluctant to engage in conflict against their compatriots. The situation escalated as President Flores faced significant challenges, including mutinies and defections among his officers, which left him with limited options. Ultimately, the pressure to stabilize the region and quell the unrest led to the decision to negotiate with New Granada, culminating in the signing of the treaty. This agreement not only recognized Ecuador's independence but also reshaped the territorial boundaries in the region, influencing the political landscape of South America.