Casto Méndez Núñez facts for kids
Casto Secundino María Méndez Núñez (born July 1, 1824 – died August 21, 1869) was an important Spanish naval officer. A naval officer is like a leader in the navy, commanding ships and sailors. In 1866, during a conflict called the Chincha Islands War, he was the main commander of the Spanish fleet in the Pacific Ocean. This war was fought between Spain, Peru, and Chile.
During this war, Méndez Núñez led his ships to attack and destroy the port of Valparaíso in Chile. He also fought bravely in the Battle of Callao in Peru. He was injured nine times during this battle, showing his courage. Méndez Núñez made history by being the first person to travel all the way around the world on an ironclad warship. An ironclad was a new type of warship at the time, covered in thick iron plates for protection. His ship was called the Numancia.
When the American Minister to Chile, Hugh Judson Kilpatrick, found out that Méndez Núñez was going to attack Valparaíso, he tried to stop him. Kilpatrick asked the American naval commander, John Rodgers, to attack the Spanish fleet if they went ahead with the bombardment. Méndez Núñez gave a very famous and strong reply. He said that he would have to sink the American ships if they got in his way. He added that even if he had only one ship left, he would still carry out the attack. He famously stated, "Spain, the Queen and I prefer honor without ships than ships without honor." This means he valued his country's honor more than his ships.
Ships Named After Méndez Núñez
Casto Méndez Núñez was a very respected figure. Because of his bravery and service, four Spanish Navy warships have been named in his honor.
- An armored frigate: This was a warship protected by armor. It was originally called Resolución but was renamed in 1870. It was used until 1896.
- A Blas de Lezo-class cruiser: This ship was built in 1924 and served until 1963.
- The former USS O'Hare (DD-889): This was a Gearing-class destroyer that Spain used from 1973 to 1992.
- An Álvaro de Bazán-class frigate: This modern warship was put into service in 2006 and is still active today.
The town of Mendez, Cavite in the Philippines was also named after him.
See also
- In Spanish: Casto Méndez Núñez para niños
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