Army of Arauco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Army of AraucoEjército de Arauco |
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The Army of Arauco battling Mapuches as depicted in Alonso de Ovalle's Histórica relación del Reyno de Chile (1646).
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| Active | 1604–1810 (dissolution) |
| Country |  Spanish Monarchy |
| Allegiance | King of Spain |
| Branch | Spanish Army |
| Type | Tercio |
| Role | Security, control, and defense of the Captaincy General of Chile |
| Size | 1,500 |
| Garrison/HQ | Concepción |
| Engagements | Battle of Río Bueno |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders | Alonso de Ribera Francisco Laso de la Vega Pedro Porter Casanate |
The Army of Arauco (called Ejército de Arauco in Spanish) was a special group of professional soldiers. They worked for the kings of Spain in South America. This army was based in a region of south-central Chile called the Spanish-Mapuche frontier. They were active from the 1500s to the 1800s. It was quite rare to have a permanent, professional army like this in the Americas back then.
Contents
What Was the Army of Arauco?
The Army of Arauco was a professional military force. It served the Spanish kings. It was stationed in what is now south-central Chile. This area was a frontier between Spanish settlements and Mapuche lands.
Why Was This Army Special?
Most armies in the Americas at that time were not permanent. The Army of Arauco was different. It was a "standing army," meaning it was a full-time, professional force. This made it very unique for its time and place.
How the Army Was Formed
The army was created after a difficult period. This period was known as the Destruction of the Seven Cities (1598–1604). During this time, several Spanish cities were destroyed. This happened during the Arauco War. The war was fought against groups of Mapuche people. These groups had joined together against the Spanish.
Funding the Army
To pay for this new army, money came from far away. Silver from Potosí (in modern-day Bolivia) was used. This payment was called the Real Situado. It helped keep the army supplied and paid.
The Army's Headquarters
The main base for the Army of Arauco was in the city of Concepción. Because the army was there, Concepción became known as the "military capital" of Chile.
How the Army Changed Things
The Army of Arauco had a big impact on southern Chile. It created a demand for goods. For example, the soldiers needed wine. This helped the Chilean wine industry grow.
Economic Impact
The money from Potosí also brought a lot of silver into the region. This silver helped the Mapuche silverwork tradition develop. Mapuche artists created beautiful silver items.
New Customs
Some people believe that Guaraní people who served in the army helped spread a new custom. This was the habit of drinking yerba mate. Yerba mate is a popular drink in South America.
See also
In Spanish: Ejército de Arauco para niños
