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William (1824-1860), organized an unsuccessful expedition in 1853 for the conquest of the State of Sonora, Mexico. In 1855 he was induced to aid the "Liberal" party in the Nicaragua troubles. He gained a victory at La Virgen, and took possession of Granada. He became Secretary of War and commander-in-chief. He gained undisputed control of Nicaragua and caused himself to be elected President in 1856. His government was recognized by the United States. He was defeated in an insurrection in 1857. He made two subsequent attempts to overthrow governments in Central America, in one of which he was captured and shot.