Jenaro Quesada, 1st Marquis of Miravalles facts for kids
Jenaro Quesada y Matheus (born February 6, 1818 – died January 19, 1889) was an important Spanish soldier. He was known as the 1st Marquis of Miravalles and was also a Grandee of Spain, which is a very high noble title. He had a long and distinguished career in the Spanish army, serving his country through several important conflicts.
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Early Life and First Steps in the Army
Jenaro Quesada was born in Santander, Cantabria, a city in northern Spain. His family was very old and connected to important noble families like the Dukes of Fernan Nuñez. Because of this, he became a cornet (a low-ranking officer) when he was only six years old.
He studied at a special school for nobles. In 1833, he was promoted to Lieutenant in the 1st Foot Guards. From 1833 to 1836, he fought against the Carlists, who were people who wanted a different king for Spain. In 1836, his father was killed, and Jenaro left the army to work in France. However, his family convinced him to return to the army in 1837, and he rejoined as a company leader in the guards.
A Dedicated Military Career
Jenaro Quesada showed great bravery many times during the Carlist war. Even though he was a good soldier, he was promoted slowly because he refused to get involved in politics. He focused only on his military duties. He always fought for the government against different uprisings, including those from the Carlists, Republicans, and Progressives.
He became a General of Division in 1853. In 1854, he led the Madrid garrison (a group of soldiers) and fought hard to stop General Espartero and General O'Donnell from taking power. General O'Donnell even praised his brave actions.
Fighting in the Morocco War
When the war in Morocco began, General O'Donnell gave Quesada command of a division. This group of soldiers played a very important part in the campaign and in the battle of Wad el Ras. Because of his success, Quesada was made a Lieutenant General and received the Grand Cross of Charles III, a high honor.
Loyalty During Rebellions
Quesada was the director-general of the Guardia Civil (Civil Guard) when a military rebellion broke out in Madrid on June 22, 1866. Even after he was wounded in the leg, he stayed with the loyal troops until the rebels were defeated.
He did not accept any military jobs during the revolution that followed. However, in 1874, General Serrano offered him a leadership role. Quesada only accepted after making it clear that he supported King Alfonso XII of Spain.
Throughout his long and impressive career, he never got involved in political or military plots. He famously said he wouldn't even do so "to restore my king," showing his strong principles.
Ending the Carlist War
Once King Alfonso XII was back on the throne, the government made Quesada the General-in-chief of the army in central Spain. In February 1875, he became the general-in-chief of the army in the North. With the help of another officer, General O'Ryan, Quesada brought back discipline to the armies fighting against Infante Carlos, who was another person claiming to be king.
For twelve months, Quesada planned and led the operations that forced Infante Carlos to retreat into France. His followers then had to surrender their weapons. After the war, the government trusted the Marquis of Miravalles with the difficult job of ruling the Northern Provinces for several years. He managed to gain the trust of the people in the Basque Provinces and Navarre, even though they had lost many of their old freedoms (called fueros) because of their last uprising.
Later Life and Legacy
After the war, Quesada was given the titles of Marquis of Miravalles and Grandee. In 1883, he became the Minister of War and a senator. He was known as a strict and firm leader from the old school. He was also a strong Conservative, Catholic, and supporter of the monarchy.
Even his political and military opponents respected him. They saw him as a perfect example of a Castilian soldier and gentleman, known for his honesty and strong character.
Jenaro Quesada died in Madrid in January 1889 and was given full military honors.
See also
In Spanish: Genaro de Quesada y Matheus para niños
