The article explores the construction of the national state in colombia by the end of the 19th century. It is argued that hte consolidation of the modern state in Colombia began during La Regeneración (1886-1910). The process of constructing the state included the most fundamental characterisitcs of national identity in order to build up the new political system. The way by which this national project produced identities is at the core of what many analysts call the "Colombian peculiarity". The author concludes that the emphasis made on nationalitarian components will define the political process in Colombia, at least during the first half of the 20th century.