ARISTA, Mariano (ah-rees'-tah), Mexican general, born in the state of San Luis Potosi, 26 July 1802; died on board the English steamer " Tagus" going from Lisbon to France, 7 August 1855. Having distinguished himself in the successive wars that established first the independence of Mexico and afterward the republican form of government, he attained a high position in the Mexican army, and in 1836 was second in command lo Santa Anna, then general-in-chief. By the revolutions that continually agitared Mexico he was twice deprived of his command; but his military knowledge was indispensable to every dominant party, and he was quickly restored and promoted. In the war with the United States he commanded at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma; and after its close was appointed in June 1848, minister of war under President Herrera. In 1850 he was elected president of Mexico, but he resigned that office 6 January 1853, and retired to his farm, and was banished soon afterward. In 1881 his remains were sent home to Mexico.