Juana Galán facts for kids
Juana Galán (1787–1812), also known as La Galana, was a brave Spanish woman. She was a guerrilla fighter during the Peninsular War, which lasted from 1808 to 1814. Juana is famous for fighting against French soldiers in her hometown of Valdepeñas.
When she was 20 years old, Juana worked at the first tavern in Valdepeñas. This job made her one of the most informed people in the village. She knew a lot about what was happening around her.
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The Battle of Valdepeñas
On June 6, 1808, a big fight happened in Valdepeñas. This was the Battle of Valdepeñas against Napoleon's army. There were not enough men to defend the town. Juana Galán bravely encouraged the women to join the fight.
How Women Fought
Juana Galán is often shown holding a baton. But some stories say she used a heavy cast-iron stew pan to hit the soldiers. Other women helped by pouring hot water and boiling oil from their windows onto the French soldiers below. This made it very hard for the French cavalry to pass through the town.
Impact of the Battle
This battle was very important. It helped force the French army to leave the region of La Mancha. This then led to a major victory for the Spanish army at the Battle of Bailén. Because of their bravery, the town of Valdepeñas was given the special title "very heroic."
Juana's Later Life and Death
On May 2, 1810, Juana Galán married Bartolomé Ruiz de Lerma. He was also from Valdepeñas. They had two daughters together.
Sadly, Juana died on September 24, 1812. She was only about 25 years old. She passed away while giving birth to her second daughter. This was the same day that the region of La Mancha was finally freed from Napoleon's troops.
See also
In Spanish: Juana Galán para niños
- Agustina de Aragón
- Casta Álvarez
- María Pita
