Luis Carrera facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Luis Carrera
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| Born | b. 1791 Santiago, Chile |
| Died | April 8, 1818 Mendoza, Argentina |
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Colonel Luis Florentino Juan Manuel Silvestre de los Dolores de la Carrera y Verdugo (1791 – April 8, 1818) was an important military officer from Chile. He fought bravely in the Chilean War of Independence. Luis was part of the famous Carrera family. His brothers were José Miguel and Juan José. They were key leaders in Chile's fight to become independent from Spain. This happened during a time called the Patria Vieja ("Old Republic"). The Carrera family originally came from a region in Europe called Basque Country.
Contents
Luis Carrera's Early Life and Fight for Independence
Growing Up in Santiago
Luis Carrera was born in Santiago, the capital city of Chile. He was the youngest son of Ignacio de la Carrera y Cuevas and Francisca de Paula Verdugo. Luis went to a very good school for his first studies. It was called the Convictorio Carolino. This was the best school in Chile at that time.
Joining the Fight for Freedom
In 1813, the Chilean War of Independence began. Luis Carrera joined the fight. He was a commander in charge of an artillery group. Artillery means big guns like cannons. He took part in one of the first battles. This was the Battle of Yerbas Buenas.
Challenges During the War
Later that same year, Luis also fought in the Siege of Chillán. This was a difficult time for the new Chilean Army. They tried to surround and capture Spanish troops in the city of Chillán. But after a long siege, the army had to leave. This happened during the cold winter. Luis also helped defend the city of Talca.
Exile and Final Years
Life After the Spanish Reconquista
After Spain tried to take back control of Chile, a period called the reconquista began. The Carrera brothers had to leave Chile. They went to live in Argentina. But they did not stop fighting for independence from there.
A Difficult Conflict and Execution
On November 21, 1814, Luis Carrera had a serious disagreement in Buenos Aires. This conflict involved Brigadier Juan Mackenna. Mackenna was a strong supporter of General Bernardo O'Higgins. Luis was arrested and put on trial. But he was later set free.
Sadly, Luis Carrera was eventually captured. He was executed in the city of Mendoza in 1818. His brother Juan José was also executed at the same time. This was done by the military of the United Provinces of the Río de la Plata.
See also
In Spanish: Luis Carrera para niños
