Battle of Quechereguas (1814) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The battle of Quechereguas |
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| Part of the Chilean War of Independence | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Chilean patriots |
 Royalists |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Bernardo O' Higgins |
Gabino Gaínza |
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| Strength | |||||||
| unknown | unknown | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| unknown | unknown | ||||||
The Battle of Quechereguas happened on April 8, 1814. It was an important fight during the Chilean War of Independence. This war was when Chile fought to become free from Spain. The battle took place near Curicó Province in Chile. Chilean patriots won this battle against the Spanish Royalists.
Contents
Why the Battle Happened
In March 1814, the Spanish Royalists took control of Talca. This was a very important town for the Chilean patriots. The Royalist army, led by Gabino Gaínza, then planned to march towards Santiago. Santiago was the capital city for the patriots. Bernardo O' Higgins, a famous Chilean leader, wanted to stop this attack. He knew it was important to protect Santiago.
O'Higgins' Clever Plan
General Gabino Gaínza and his Royalist troops crossed the Maule river. They were moving north. O'Higgins could not follow them right away. The Royalist army was too big during the day.
But during the night, O'Higgins made a secret plan. He quietly crossed the river with his own soldiers. They marched very fast to the north. O'Higgins placed his army at a place called Quechereguas. This spot was right between the Royalist army and the road to Santiago.
The Fight at Quechereguas
The next day, Gabino Gaínza found O'Higgins' army blocking his path. He decided to attack. But O'Higgins' soldiers were ready. They fought bravely and pushed back the Royalist attack. The Royalists could not get past them. This forced Gaínza's army to go back to Talca. The patriots had successfully stopped the Royalist advance towards Santiago.
See also
In Spanish: Combate de Quechereguas (1814) para niños
- 1814 in Chile
- History of Chile
Images for kids
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Gabino Gaínza y Fernández, the Royalist commander
