Action of Picheuta facts for kids

The Action of Picheuta was a small but important military clash that happened on January 24, 1817. It took place during the famous Crossing of the Andes, a huge journey by the Army of the Andes to free Chile from Spanish rule.

What Was the Action of Picheuta?

The Action of Picheuta was a surprise attack by Spanish royalist forces against a small group of patriot soldiers. It happened in a place called Picheuta, high up in the Andes mountains. This event was a quick fight, but it played a part in the bigger plan to gain independence.

The Patriot Journey

The patriot army, known as the Army of the Andes, was making its way across the giant Andes mountains. This was a very difficult journey, crossing high peaks and deep valleys. One part of this army was led by General Juan Gregorio de las Heras. His group was about 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) away from the Uspallata Pass, a key mountain pass.

The Royalist Surprise Attack

While General Las Heras's column was still crossing the mountains, a group of Spanish royalist soldiers found them. This royalist group was led by an officer named Miguel Marquelli. He had three other officers and 50 soldiers with him. Their job was to scout ahead and see what the patriot army was doing.

The royalists surprised the patriot soldiers at Picheuta. This spot was being defended by only five soldiers, a few other privates, and a corporal from Battalion No. 11. The royalists attacked from the left side, catching the patriots off guard.

The Outcome of the Fight

During the surprise attack, about half of the patriot soldiers defending Picheuta were captured by the royalists. The other half managed to escape. They quickly fled to warn the main part of the Army of the Andes that royalist forces were nearby. This warning was very important. It led directly to another, bigger battle the very next day, known as the Battle of Potrerillos.

See also

In Spanish: Combate de Picheuta para niños