Page:Vol 5 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/238

218 an end, and Iman, a militia officer, raised the standard of revolt at Tizimin, in May 1839. After several unsuccessful movements with untrained followers he profited by experience and managed in February of the following year to capture Valladolid. This gave importance to the cause, and Mérida joining, the entire north-eastern part of the peninsula stood for the revolutionists, who now declared the province independent of Mexico until the federal system should be reëstablished. Affairs were restored to the footing of 1834, including the legislature, Governor Cosgaya, and other authorities, and the local constitution of 1825, the Indians being besides granted a reduction in ecelesiastic fees as the price of their favor. With increased strength the federalists now drove the government forces into Campeche and laid siege to it, assisted by a flotilla of four vessels, which effectually offset the reënforcements sent from Mexico. During a close investment of two months, several commanding points were gained, and the town was reduced to great stress from bombardment and failing supplies and ammunition. The popular feeling growing decidedly hostile, and no prospects appearing of further aid, the commandant, General Rivas Zayas, capitulated on June 6th, and was allowed to depart with his troops for Vera Cruz, leaving the federalists in possession of the whole peninsula, under a newly chosen legislature or congress, which net in August, headed by Santiago Mendez as governor with presidential power.