Battle of Luchana facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Luchana
Part of First Carlist War
Date 23–24 December 1836 Location Bilbao and vicinities, Basque Country, Spain Result Liberal 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
	Baldomero Espartero

The Battle of Luchana was an important fight during the First Carlist War in Spain. It happened near the city of Bilbao on the night of December 23, 1836, and continued into December 24. This battle was a big moment because it ended a long siege of Bilbao.

During this war, two main groups were fighting: the Carlists and the Liberals. The Carlists supported Infante Carlos, Count of Molina, who believed he should be king. The Liberals, also called Isabelinos or Cristinos, supported Isabella II of Spain and her mother, Maria Christina of the Two Sicilies, who was ruling for her.

Before the battle, the Carlists had surrounded Bilbao. They controlled the roads and rivers leading to the city. This meant no supplies or help could get in. The battle itself took place in an area called Luchana, near the Asúa River, which flows into the Nervión River.

What Was the First Carlist War?

The First Carlist War (1833-1840) was a civil war in Spain. It was fought over who should be the next ruler. When King Ferdinand VII of Spain died, he left his daughter, Isabella, as queen. But his brother, Carlos, believed he should be king instead. This disagreement led to a long and bloody conflict.

The Carlists wanted to keep traditional ways in Spain. They supported a strong monarchy and the Catholic Church. The Liberals wanted more modern ideas. They supported a constitutional monarchy and more freedoms.

Why Was Bilbao Important?

Bilbao was a very important city during the war. It was a major port and a center for trade. Controlling Bilbao meant controlling a key part of northern Spain. The Carlists wanted to capture it to weaken the Liberal government. They had been trying to take the city for a long time.

The siege of Bilbao had lasted for weeks. People inside the city were running out of food and supplies. It was crucial for the Liberals to break the siege.

The Battle of Luchana: A Night Attack

The Liberal forces were led by General Baldomero Espartero. He planned a surprise attack to lift the siege. The battle happened at night, which made it very difficult. Soldiers fought in the dark and cold.

General Espartero's plan was daring. He led his troops across the river. They attacked the Carlist positions directly. The fighting was fierce and lasted for hours.

Who Won the Battle?

The Liberal forces, led by General Espartero, won the Battle of Luchana. Their victory was a huge relief for the people of Bilbao. The Carlists were forced to retreat, and the siege was finally over. This win was a major turning point in the First Carlist War. It showed that the Liberals could defeat the Carlists in a big battle.

Images for kids

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  A painting showing the attack on the Luchana Bridge during the battle.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Luchana para niños