Manuel Riquelme facts for kids

Manuel Riquelme de la Barrera y Vargas (born 1772, died 1857) was an important military officer from Chile. He was born in Chillán, a city in Chile. Manuel was the brother of Isabel Riquelme, who was the mother of Bernardo O'Higgins. Bernardo O'Higgins became a very famous leader in Chile's history.

Manuel Riquelme's Life and Military Career

Manuel Riquelme spent most of his life in Los Angeles, a city in Chile, with his brothers. He started his military career when he was quite young. He fought in the Chilean War of Independence, which was a big fight for Chile to become free. During this war, he showed great bravery and became a master sergeant.

Manuel Riquelme was a close friend of his nephew, Bernardo O'Higgins. He even served in Bernardo O'Higgins's personal guard of honor. He was with O'Higgins when he returned to Chile from Europe in 1802.

Important Roles and Promotions

Manuel Riquelme was given important jobs in the military. He was made the Military Governor and Commander of Arms for the area of Los Angeles. He held these important positions for a long time, until 1852. That year, he was promoted to colonel. Soon after, he received the high rank of Brigadier General. This meant he was a very senior leader in the army.

Interviewed by Historians

Because of his close connection to Bernardo O'Higgins and his role in the War of Independence, Manuel Riquelme was interviewed by famous historians. These historians included Diego Barros Arana and Claude Gay. They wanted to learn more about Bernardo O'Higgins's life and the important time of Chile's fight for independence.

Manuel Riquelme's Family Life

Manuel Riquelme was married to Dona Carmen del Rio y Mier. They had a daughter named Clorinda Riquelme del Rio. She later married José María de la Maza. Manuel Riquelme's family, and the families of his brothers, still live in Los Angeles today. He passed away in Los Angeles in 1857 or 1858.