Battle of Cambronal facts for kids

The Battle of Cambronal was an important fight that happened on December 22, 1855. It took place in a spot called Cambronal, close to the town of Neiba. This battle was a key event in the years following the Dominican War of Independence.

Quick facts for kids Battle of Cambronal
Part of the Dominican War of Independence
Map of the Dominican Republic (1921)
Date 22 December 1855 Location Cambronal, nearby Neiba Result Dominican victory
Belligerents
Dominican Republic	Empire of Haiti
Commanders and leaders
Francisco Sosa	Pierre Rivere Garat  †
Strength
400 militia	6,000 regulars

What Was the Battle of Cambronal?

The Battle of Cambronal was a major clash between the newly independent Dominican Republic and the Empire of Haiti. The Dominican Republic had gained its freedom from Haiti in 1844. However, Haiti still tried to take back control. This battle was one of many fights to protect Dominican independence.

Who Fought in the Battle?

On one side were the Dominican troops. They were part of the Army of the South. Their leader was General Francisco Sosa. His force was made up of about 400 militia. Militia are citizen soldiers who are not full-time military.

On the other side was the Haitian Army. They had a much larger force, around 6,000 regular soldiers. These were trained, full-time military personnel. Their commander was General Pierre Rivere Garat.

The Commanders and Their Strategies

General Francisco Sosa led the smaller Dominican force. He had to use smart tactics because his army was outnumbered. His goal was to defend the area near Neiba and stop the Haitian advance.

General Pierre Rivere Garat commanded the large Haitian army. His mission was to push into Dominican territory. He likely expected an easy victory due to his army's size.

How the Battle Unfolded

The battle took place on December 22, 1855. The Dominican soldiers, despite being fewer in number, fought bravely. They used their knowledge of the local land to their advantage.

The fighting was intense. The Dominican troops, under General Sosa, managed to defeat the much larger Haitian force. This was a surprising and important victory for the Dominicans.

The Outcome and Its Importance

The Battle of Cambronal ended in a clear victory for the Dominican Republic. General Pierre Rivere Garat, the Haitian commander, was killed during the battle. This was a significant blow to the Haitian army.

This victory showed that the Dominican Republic could defend itself. It helped secure their independence and boosted the morale of the Dominican people. It was a reminder that courage and smart planning can overcome a larger enemy.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Cambronal para niños