Luis Vicente de Velasco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Luis Vicente de Velasco
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| Born | 9 February 1711 Noja, Spain |
| Died | 31 July 1762 (aged 51) Havana, Cuba |
| Allegiance | Spain |
| Service/ |
Spanish Navy |
| Years of service | 1732–1762 |
| Rank | Commandant |
| Commands held | La Reina |
| Battles/wars | Spanish conquest of Oran Anglo-Spanish War |
| Relations | Iñigo José de Velasco (Brother) |
Luis Vicente de Velasco e Isla (born February 9, 1711 – died July 31, 1762) was a brave Spanish naval officer. He is famous for defending Havana, Cuba during a big battle in 1762. He sadly died during this fight.
Contents
About Luis Vicente de Velasco
Luis Vicente de Velasco was born in Noja, a town in Cantabria, Spain. He joined the Spanish navy when he was just 15 years old. His first battle was against Barbary pirates, who were like sea robbers. Later, in 1732, he took part in the Conquest of Oran. This was a military mission to take control of the city of Oran.
The Battle for Havana
British Attack on Cuba in 1762
During the Seven Years' War, a big war fought around the world, the British decided to attack Cuba. In 1762, they sent a huge fleet of ships and many soldiers. There were 23 large warships, 11 smaller frigates, and many other vessels. In total, about 31,000 British soldiers arrived.
The Spanish forces defending Havana had about 11,670 men. They also had 10 warships and many cannons. These cannons were placed on Havana's strong defenses. About 10,000 British soldiers landed on the island. They quickly took control of some high ground. The governor of Cuba, Juan de Prado, had left these areas unprotected.
Velasco Defends Morro Castle
Luis Vicente de Velasco was in charge of defending a very important fort. This fort was called Morro Castle. It had 64 cannons and was defended by 700 men. On July 1, the British launched a combined attack. Their ships and land forces fired at the Morro Castle.
Four British warships, including HMS Stirling Castle and HMS Dragon, joined the attack. They fired their cannons at the fort. However, the ships' cannons were not very effective. The fort was too high for their shots to hit properly. So, the naval attack was called off.
Velasco's Brave Stand and Death
Despite daily shelling from the British, Morro Castle held out for two more months. This was thanks to Velasco's excellent leadership. He kept his men fighting bravely. The strong resistance ended when Velasco was hit by a bullet in his chest. He was badly wounded.
The British commander, the Earl of Albemarle, allowed Velasco to be moved to Havana. British doctors tried to save his life, but it was too late. Luis Vicente de Velasco died on July 31, 1762. Both the British and Spanish agreed to a short break in fighting for his burial. Two weeks later, Havana was captured by the British. This was a big loss for Spain. Many Spanish soldiers were captured, and their ships in the harbor were also taken.
Velasco's Legacy
Luis Vicente de Velasco was honored for his great bravery. King Charles III of Spain wanted everyone to remember him. The King had a statue of Velasco built in Meruelo, Spain. He also ordered a Spanish navy ship to be named after him. To further honor Velasco's family, the King gave his brother, Iñigo José de Velasco, a special title: Marquess of Velasco.
See also
In Spanish: Luis Vicente de Velasco para niños
