Francisco Javier Eugenio de Santa Cruz y Espejo was a significant figure in colonial Ecuador. He was a writer, lawyer and a medical pioneer. He was Quito’s first journalist and hygienist. He even wrote a piece in regard to microorganisms and sanitary conditions that caused diseases and their spread. His satirical work was inspirational and reflected the ideas of Enlightenment that had engulfed Europe. During his lifetime, poverty and racism were rampant in Ecuador and all his life he strived to educate the general public on how the Royal Audencia, the presidency of Quito, failed to handle finances, the corruption that was existent in the political system, and the problems caused by lack of education. His writings were critical of the Royal Audencia and the rulers despised his satirical work and writings. He was exiled by the Royal Audencia during his youth and was finally arrested a few days before his death.