Battle of Natividad facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Natividad
Part of the Conquest of California Mexican–American War
Battle of Natividad historic marker
Date November 16, 1846 Location Salinas Valley, California, U.S. Result American victory
Belligerents
United States	Mexico
Commanders and leaders
Charles Burroughs, Bluford K. Thompson	Manuel de Jesus Castro
Strength
~60 mounted Settler militia, 10 mounted Settler and Walla Walla scouts	30 veteran Californio cavalry, 30 mounted Californio militia, 30 New Mexican and Mexican militia
Casualties and losses
4-5 killed, 9-20 wounded	3 killed, 5-7 wounded
California Historical Landmark
Official name: Site of the Battle of Natividad
Reference #:	651

The Battle of Natividad was a small but important fight during the Mexican–American War. It happened on November 16, 1846, in the Salinas Valley in what is now Monterey County, California. This battle was part of the Conquest of California, where the United States was trying to take control of California from Mexico. The fight was between American volunteer soldiers and Mexican soldiers who were loyal to Mexico.

What Was the Battle of Natividad?

Before the battle, Lieutenant Colonel John C. Frémont was leading about 450 American soldiers, called the California Battalion. They were on their way to join other American forces near Los Angeles. Their goal was to stop a rebellion there.

A Surprise Attack

An American scouting group was looking for horses for Frémont's army. They were attacked by Mexican soldiers, known as Californios, on a ranch called Rancho La Natividad. The Californios wanted to capture the horses the Americans were herding.

The Fight Itself

A battle quickly started. The Californios killed four American soldiers and wounded more. The American volunteers were buried nearby. The Californios said they had no deaths but five wounded. The Americans, however, reported that several Californios were killed or wounded. When the Californios retreated, the Americans did not chase them. Some Native American fighters, from the Walla Walla and Delaware tribes, fought bravely alongside the Americans.

What Happened After the Battle?

Even though it was a small fight, the Battle of Natividad was important. The Americans managed to keep their horses, which meant they could deliver them to Frémont's army on time. This helped Frémont continue his march to Southern California.

Ending the War in California

The fighting in California officially ended in January 1847 with the Treaty of Cahuenga. This treaty was signed by Frémont and Andrés Pico. A special part of the treaty was added to protect some of the Californios who fought in the Battle of Natividad. These soldiers had previously promised not to fight against the Americans, but they broke that promise by fighting in this battle. The treaty made sure they would not be punished for it.

A Historic Site

Today, the place where the Battle of Natividad happened is recognized as California Historical Landmark #651. It helps us remember this important event in California's history.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Natividad para niños