Galo Plaza differed from previous Ecuadorian presidents . Galo Plaza brought a developmentalist and technocratic emphasis to Ecuadorian government . No doubt Galo Plaza 's most important contribution to Ecuadorian political culture was his commitment to the principles and practices of democracy . As president he managed to foment the agricultural exports of Ecuador during his government , creating economic stability . During his presidency , the 1949 Ambato earthquake severely damaged the city and surrounding areas and killed approximately 5,050 people . Unable to succeed himself , he left his office in 1952 as the first president in 28 years to complete his term in office
1949 Ambato earthquake
1949 Ambato earthquake
History of Ecuador (1944–60)