 He is known for having opposed the annexation of the Dominican Republic to Spain and then having fought the Spanish Crown; and for being one of the rebels of the famous "El Grito de Capotillo" that began the Dominican Restoration War with General Gregorio Luperón.Although little is known about his origin, many historians agree that the son of the landowner Vicente Rodríguez and Josefina Masagó (of Haitian descent), two wealthy merchants from the city of Santiago in the Dominican Republic.After the Restoration of the country, Rodríguez held various military occupations.