Battle of Port-au-Prince (1919) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Port-au-Prince (1919)
Part of the United States occupation of Haiti, Second Caco War, Banana Wars
Date 6–7 October 1919 Location Port-au-Prince, Haiti 18°31′59″N 72°19′59″W / 18.533°N 72.333°W / 18.533; -72.333 Result American-Haitian government victory
Belligerents
United States Haitian government	Cacos
Commanders and leaders
Lt. Kemp Christian	Charlemagne Péralte
Strength
unknown	200–300 rebels "a number of Port-au-Prince sympathisers"
Casualties and losses
unknown, a few casualties	30+ killed 20 horses captured 1 field gun captured

The Battle of Port-au-Prince was a short but important fight in Haiti. It happened on October 6 or 7, 1919. During this battle, Haitian rebels, known as Cacos, attacked Port-au-Prince, the capital city of Haiti. This event was part of a larger period called the American occupation of Haiti and the Second Caco War.

What Happened in Port-au-Prince?

The Cacos Attack the Capital

The attack began very early in the morning, around 4:00 a.m. Between 200 and 300 Caco rebels entered the city from the north. They were led by Charlemagne Péralte, a well-known rebel leader. The Cacos were armed with simple weapons like swords, machetes, and pikes.

Defenders Were Ready

The American Marines and Haitian gendarmes (a type of police force) were defending the city. They were ready for the attack. This was because Péralte had actually sent a warning to the British embassy beforehand. When the Cacos entered, they were met with strong rifle and machine gun fire. The defenders quickly fought back. The Caco attack broke apart in just about two minutes.

After the Battle

Capturing the Rebel Camp

On October 8, the day after the battle, Lieutenant Kemp C. Christian led a small group of 12 Haitian gendarmes. They found and captured Péralte's main camp. During this action, 30 Caco rebels were killed. The gendarmes also captured 20 horses, some rifles, swords, and even a field gun. This field gun was the only one Péralte had.

Péralte Escapes

Even though his camp was captured, Charlemagne Péralte, the leader of the Caco rebels, managed to get away. He continued to lead the rebellion for a short time after this battle.