Juan Fanning facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Juan Fanning
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| Born | April 3, 1823 Lambayeque, Peru |
| Died | January 16, 1881 (aged 56) Lima, Peru |
| Allegiance |  Peru |
| Service/ |
 Peruvian Navy |
| Years of service | 1839–1880 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Battles/wars | War of the Pacific
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Juan Fanning (born April 3, 1823 – died January 16, 1881) was a brave naval officer from Peru. He is famous for leading a very important charge against the Chilean army. This happened during a big battle called the Battle of Miraflores. Sadly, Captain Fanning was badly wounded during this heroic attack.
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Juan Fanning was born in Lambayeque, Peru, in 1823. His father, John Fanning, was an American businessman. His mother, Micaela Garcia, was Peruvian.
When Juan was just 15 years old, he joined the Peruvian Navy. This was the start of his long career at sea. His first job as a junior officer was on a warship named Libertad.
Fanning became a Corvette Captain during the 1866 war with Spain. This conflict is known as the Chincha Islands War. From April to September 1879, he was stationed in Arica, a port city.
The War of the Pacific
The War of the Pacific was a major conflict in South America. During this war, the Chilean army invaded Peru. On January 15, 1881, they attacked the Miraflores District, which is just outside Lima, the capital city.
Captain Fanning's unit was moved from the port to help defend Lima. They were ordered to launch a counter-attack against the Chilean forces.
The Battle of Miraflores
Fanning led a very brave charge during the Battle of Miraflores. His unit pushed back the enemy soldiers. However, other Peruvian units started to retreat. This happened because the Chilean forces received many more soldiers as backup.
Fanning's group kept fighting even when they were outnumbered. But eventually, his brigade ran out of ammunition. Their position was then taken over by the Chilean army.
Sacrifice and Legacy
Captain Fanning was seriously wounded during his courageous charge. He was taken back to Lima. He passed away at his wife's side.
It is said that his last words were, "¡Estoy muriendo por mi país!" This means, "I am dying for my country!"
To honor his bravery and sacrifice, a Peruvian military unit was named after him. It is called "Capitán de Navío Juan Fanning."
See also
In Spanish: Juan Fanning García para niños
