The extreme frequency of elections under New Granada's 1853 constitution, held at different times for all sorts of local and national offices, contributes to the early consolidation of party affiliations.

And although the constitution does not introduce outright federalism, it is soon being amended to transform specific parts of the country into "states" with substantial powers of self-government.

Panama, which has never felt much affinity with the rest of New Granada, is the first to receive such status, but other sections demand and achieve the same, until in 1858 the ambiguous nature of the country's administration is tidied up by adoption of the first frankly federalist constitution.

It is adopted during the Conservative administration of Ospina, whose party has been gradually warming to the idea of federalism, among other reasons because it seemingly guarantees the Conservatives control of regions where they are strongest, regardless of who holds power in Bogotá.

However, before long the Liberals accuse Ospina of failing to faithfully observe the new system and rise up in what will be the nation's only full-fledged civil war (as distinct from civil or military coup) to succeed in toppling a government.

The war lasts from 1859 to 1862, and when it is over the provisional head of state is General Mosquera, now fully transformed into paladin of the Liberal cause.