Brigida Silva de Ochoa facts for kids

Brigida Silva de Ochoa was a brave Peruvian woman born in 1776. She played an important secret role in Peru's fight for independence from Spain. Her family was deeply involved in the movement to free Peru from Spanish rule.

Brigida Silva de Ochoa: A Peruvian Patriot

Her Family's Fight for Freedom

Brigida's family was very active in the Peruvian War of Independence. Her older brother, Remigio Silva, was a military leader who was arrested in 1809 because he was part of a plan against the Spanish government. Her younger brother, Mateo, also supported an attempt to overthrow the government in 1809. Mateo was arrested and spent ten years in prison.

When Brigida was 18, she married Francisco Ochoa Camargo. He was from Cuzco and shared her family's strong beliefs about Peruvian independence.

Helping the Cause of Freedom

Brigida dedicated her life to helping those who were fighting for Peru's freedom. She especially helped patriots who were sent to Spain after a failed uprising in Cuzco led by Aguilar and Ubaide.

She also worked as a secret messenger. Brigida carried important communications between the patriots who were hiding outside the capital city. This was a very dangerous job, but she was never caught or suspected. This was partly because her oldest son worked as an officer for the King of Spain's army. This unique situation allowed her to visit places where her brother Remigio was imprisoned. She used this access to gather secret information. This information was then used to help the patriots achieve their victory at the Battle of Maipu, a key moment in the fight for independence.

See also

• Brígida Silva para niños (In Spanish)