Battle of Las Guasimas (1874) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Las Guasimas
Part of the Ten Years' War
Date 16–20 March 1874 Location Camagüey, Cuba Result Cuban victory
Belligerents
Spanish Empire	Cuban separatists
Commanders and leaders
Brigadier Armiñán	Major general Máximo Gómez Brigadier Antonio Maceo (WIA)
Strength
5,000	2,050
Casualties and losses
1,037 killed, wounded, or missing	174 killed or wounded

The Battle of Las Guásimas was an important fight during the Ten Years' War in Cuba. It happened from March 16 to 20, 1874, in a place called Camagüey. In this battle, about 2,050 Cuban rebels, led by a skilled general named Máximo Gómez, fought against 5,000 Spanish soldiers who also had 6 cannons. Even though the Spanish had more soldiers and weapons, the Cuban rebels won this five-day battle. The Spanish lost many soldiers, with 1,037 killed, wounded, or missing. The Cuban rebels had fewer losses, with 174 killed or wounded.

What Was the Ten Years' War?

The Ten Years' War (1868–1878) was a very important time in Cuban history. It was the first big fight for Cuba's independence from Spain. For many years, Cuba was a Spanish colony. This meant Spain controlled the island and its people. Many Cubans wanted to be free and govern themselves. The war started when a Cuban planter named Carlos Manuel de Céspedes freed his enslaved people and called for a revolution. This war lasted for ten years and involved many battles across the island.

Who Fought at Las Guásimas?

The battle involved two main groups:

• Cuban Rebels: These were Cubans who wanted independence from Spain. They were also called separatists. Their main leader in this battle was Máximo Gómez, a very experienced military leader from the Dominican Republic. Another important leader was Brigadier Antonio Maceo, who was wounded during the fight. The rebels had about 2,050 fighters.
• Spanish Army: These were soldiers from the Spanish Empire, defending Spain's control over Cuba. Their commander was Brigadier Armiñán. The Spanish army was much larger, with about 5,000 soldiers and 6 cannons.

Where and When Did the Battle Happen?

The Battle of Las Guásimas took place in the region of Camagüey, which is in central Cuba. This area was important because it was a place where Cuban rebels often gathered and planned their actions. The battle lasted for five days, from March 16 to March 20, 1874.

What Happened During the Battle?

The battle was a series of intense fights over several days. The Cuban rebels, even though they had fewer soldiers and no cannons, used their knowledge of the land to their advantage. They used clever tactics to surprise the Spanish troops. Máximo Gómez was known for his smart military plans. The rebels fought bravely, often in close combat. The Spanish army, despite its size, found it hard to fight against the rebels' quick movements and strong will. Brigadier Antonio Maceo, a brave Cuban leader, was wounded during the battle, but the rebels continued to fight.

Why Was This Battle Important?

The Battle of Las Guásimas was a big victory for the Cuban rebels. It showed that they could defeat a much larger and better-equipped Spanish army. This win boosted the spirits of the Cuban people and gave them hope that they could truly win their independence. It also showed the skill of leaders like Máximo Gómez and Antonio Maceo. For the Spanish, it was a major defeat that highlighted the challenges they faced in controlling the rebellion. This battle became a symbol of Cuban courage and determination during the Ten Years' War.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de las Guásimas (1874) para niños