Benito Pérez Brito facts for kids
Benito Pérez Brito was a Spanish military officer and important government official. He was born in Barcelona, Spain, in 1747. He died in Panama City on August 3, 1813. From March to November 1812, he served as the viceroy of New Granada. A viceroy was like a king's representative in a colony.
Early Life and Military Career
Benito Pérez Brito joined the army in 1762. He started as a cadet, which is a trainee officer. He worked in many places in America. For example, he was a lieutenant for the king in Puerto Rico and Havana.
After a big fight called the Siege of San Juan in 1797, he was praised for his actions. He was promoted to a high rank called Field Marshal. Later, he became the captain general and intendant of Yucatán. He held this important job from 1800 to 1811.
As Viceroy of New Granada
In August 1810, Benito Pérez Brito was chosen to be the viceroy of New Granada. This was a very important role. He first went to Mérida, Yucatán and Havana. He wanted to gather supplies and help. His goal was to take back Cartagena, which was controlled by rebels.
The main capital of New Granada, Bogotá, was also held by rebels. So, he made his own capital in Portobelo, Panama. He arrived in Portobelo on February 19, 1812. He did not bring any extra soldiers with him.
He set up the Audiencia of Bogotá in Panama. This was a high court and government body. On March 21, 1812, he officially became the viceroy. He tried to help the royalists in Santa Marta. Royalists were people who supported the Spanish king.
Pérez Brito left his position as viceroy in November 1812. The Spanish government in Cádiz wanted him to resign. He died in Panama on August 3, 1813. Just four days later, the rebel leader Simón Bolívar entered Caracas. This event helped to bring back the Venezuelan Republic.
See also
In Spanish: Benito Pérez Brito para niños
