Battle of Cancha Rayada (1814) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids First battle of Cancha Rayada |
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| Part of the Chilean War of Independence | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Chilean patriots |
 Royalists |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Manuel Blanco Encalada |
Ángel Calvo |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 1,400 | 450 | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 300 prisoners | unknown | ||||||
The First Battle of Cancha Rayada was a key event during the Chilean War of Independence. It happened on March 29, 1814. This battle is sometimes called the 'Disaster' or 'Surprise of Cancha Rayada' because of how it ended for the Chilean patriots.
Why the Battle Happened
A group of Chilean patriots, led by Manuel Blanco Encalada, moved towards the city of Talca. Blanco Encalada was an important Chilean naval officer. Talca was controlled by a guerrilla leader named Ángel Calvo.
Calvo was a Chilean landowner. He had first supported the patriots but then switched sides. He joined the Royalists, who were loyal to the King of Spain. This happened during the Siege of Chillan the year before.
The Battle Unfolds
Manuel Blanco Encalada arrived in a place called Quechereguas. There, he got a message from Ángel Calvo. Calvo suggested a spot for their upcoming battle. The very next day, Blanco Encalada moved his troops into position. He then launched his attack.
At first, the battle seemed to go well for the patriots. But then, more Royalist soldiers arrived quickly. These reinforcements forced Blanco Encalada's troops to fall back. They retreated until they reached Cancha Rayada. There, they had to face the Royalist advance directly.
The patriot forces could not hold their ground. Many officers and unit leaders quickly fled back towards Santiago.
What Happened Next
After the battle, patriot commanders tried to gather their soldiers. But many were captured, along with their troops. In just about 15 minutes, a smaller Royalist force of 450 soldiers had defeated 1,400 patriot soldiers.
The Royalists took 300 patriots as prisoners. They also captured food, ammunition, and guns. This was a big loss for the Chilean patriots in their fight for independence.
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