Battle of Arlabán facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Arlabán
Part of First Carlist War
Street sign in Madrid commemorating battle.
Date 16–18 January 1836 Location Arlabán, Basque Country, Spain Result Indecisive (both parties claimed victory)
Belligerents
Carlists supporting Infante Carlos of Spain	Liberals (Isabelinos or Cristinos) supporting Isabella II of Spain and her regent mother Maria Christina
Commanders and leaders
	Luis Fernández de Córdova Baldomero Espartero

The Battle of Arlabán was an important fight during the First Carlist War in Spain. It happened near the Arlabán mountains, between the areas of Álava and Guipúzcoa. The battle took place from January 16 to 18, 1836. Both sides claimed they won, so the battle's outcome was not clear.

What Was the First Carlist War?

The Battle of Arlabán was part of the First Carlist War, which lasted from 1833 to 1840. This war was fought over who should rule Spain.

Who Was Fighting?

On one side were the Carlists. They supported Infante Carlos, Count of Molina. He believed he should be king of Spain.

On the other side were the Liberals. They were also called Isabelinos or Cristinos. They supported Isabella II of Spain, who was a young queen. Her mother, Maria Christina of the Two Sicilies, ruled for her.

Why Did They Fight?

The war was about more than just who was king or queen. It was also about different ideas for how Spain should be run.

• The Carlists wanted to keep old traditions and a strong monarchy.
• The Liberals wanted more modern ideas, like a constitution and more freedom.

The Battle Unfolds

The battle happened in the mountains of Arlabán. This area was important because it controlled routes between different parts of Spain.

Day One and Two: Liberal Advance

On January 16 and 17, 1836, the Liberal forces attacked. They were led by generals Luis Fernández de Córdova and Baldomero Espartero.

• The Liberals had help from soldiers from other countries. These included the British Legion and the French Legion.
• They attacked the Carlist positions from three different directions.
• The Liberals managed to push the Carlists out of Arlabán. They also took control of a nearby town called Legutiano (also known as Villarreal de Álava).

Day Three: Carlist Counterattack

On January 18, the Carlists fought back strongly. They launched a big counterattack against the Liberals.

• The Carlists pushed the Liberal forces back.
• The Liberals suffered many injuries and losses during this retreat.

The Outcome

After three days of fighting, neither side truly won. Both the Carlists and the Liberals said they were victorious. This is why the battle is often called "indecisive." It showed how tough the fighting was in the First Carlist War.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Arlabán para niños