Battle of Nogales (1913) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids First Battle of Nogales
Part of the Mexican Revolution
Date March 23, 1913 Location Nogales, Sonora, Mexico Result Constitutionalist victory
Belligerents
Constitutionalists Constitutional Army	Government Federal Army
Commanders and leaders
Alvaro Obregón	Emilio Kosterlitzky
Strength
~2,000	~400
Casualties and losses
6 killed 9 wounded	4 killed 5 wounded

The First Battle of Nogales was an important fight during the Mexican Revolution. It happened between two groups of Mexicans: the government's soldiers and a rebel group called the Constitutionalists.

This battle took place in Nogales, Sonora, a city right on the border with the United States. The date was March 23, 1913.

What Happened in Nogales?

The Attack Begins

Rebel soldiers, led by General Alvaro Obregon, attacked the city. They aimed to take control from the government's soldiers. There were about 2,000 rebel fighters.

The government had about 400 soldiers defending Nogales. General Obregon's army was strong. It included soldiers who fought on foot (infantry) and soldiers who rode horses (cavalry). They also had at least one large cannon (artillery).

The Fight and Surrender

The fighting lasted for only a few hours. The leader of the government's soldiers, General Emilio Kosterlitzky, was captured by the rebels. This was a big moment in the battle.

After their leader was captured, the remaining government soldiers had to make a choice. They retreated across the border into Nogales, Arizona, in the United States. There, they surrendered to the United States Army.

Captain Cornelius C. Smith of the U.S. Army took their weapons. Later, these soldiers were able to return to Mexico.

Who Won and What Were the Losses?

Battle Outcome

The Constitutionalists won the First Battle of Nogales. This meant they gained control of the city of Nogales, Sonora. It was an important victory for their cause in the Mexican Revolution.

Counting the Costs

Both sides had soldiers who were killed or hurt. Six rebel soldiers died during the battle. Nine rebel soldiers were wounded.

The government's side also suffered losses. Four of their soldiers were killed. Five government soldiers were wounded.