Battle of Pozo Almonte facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Pozo Almonte |
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| Part of the Chilean Civil War of 1891 | |||||||
 Assassination of Eulogio Robles by congressional troops after the battle (vintage engraving). |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Balmaceda Government |
Congressionist Junta |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Eulogio Robles Pinochet † |
Estanislao del Canto |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 1,200 | 1,700 | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 400 | 76 | ||||||
The Battle of Pozo Almonte was an important fight during the Chilean Civil War of 1891. It happened on March 6, 1891. This battle was between two main groups in Chile. One group supported the President, and the other supported the Congress. The side that supported the Congress won this battle. This victory helped them take control of all of northern Chile.
Contents
What Was the Chilean Civil War?
The Chilean Civil War of 1891 was a big conflict in Chile. It happened because of disagreements between the President and the Congress. President José Manuel Balmaceda and the National Congress had different ideas. They disagreed about how the country should be run. This led to a war between their supporters.
Who Were the Two Sides?
- Balmacedist Forces: These were the soldiers and people who supported President Balmaceda. They believed the President should have more power. Their goal was to keep Balmaceda in charge.
- Congressionist Forces: These were the soldiers and people who supported the National Congress. They believed the Congress should have more power. They wanted to limit the President's power. They formed a group called the Congressionist Junta.
Where Did the Battle Happen?
The battle took place in a town called Pozo Almonte. This town is in the Tamarugal Province of Chile. It is located in the northern part of the country. Control of this area was very important during the war.
What Happened During the Battle?
The battle began on March 6, 1891. The Congressionist forces were moving south. They wanted to take control of more areas. The Balmacedist forces tried to stop them.
The Congressionists had more soldiers. They had about 1,700 fighters. The Balmacedists had about 1,200 soldiers. The fighting was tough. Both sides fought bravely.
Key Commanders
- For the Balmacedists: General Eulogio Robles Pinochet led their forces. He was a brave leader. Sadly, he was killed during or shortly after the battle.
- For the Congressionists: General Estanislao del Canto was their commander. He led his troops to victory.
What Was the Result?
The Congressionist forces won the Battle of Pozo Almonte. This was a very important victory for them. The Balmacedists suffered many losses. About 400 of their soldiers were killed. The Congressionists had fewer losses, with about 76 casualties.
This win meant the Congressionists gained control of northern Chile. This area was important for its resources. It helped them get closer to winning the entire civil war. The Battle of Pozo Almonte was a turning point in the conflict.
Images for kids
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Assassination of Eulogio Robles by congressional troops after the battle (vintage engraving).
See also
In Spanish: Batalla de Pozo Almonte para niños
