Rafael Balanzat y Baranda facts for kids
Rafael Balanzat y Baranda (born December 23, 1820, in Madrid – died October 24, 1854) was a Spanish writer and a brave soldier. He was also a Knight Laureate, which means he received a special award for his courage. Rafael came from a noble family from Ibiza. His father, Ignacio Balanzat de Orvay y Briones, was a very important army officer, an Inspector General of Infantry and a Marshal of the Spanish Army. Rafael's mother was María Dolores de Baranda y Cajigal. He also had an older brother, José Balanzat y Baranda, who was a Colonel. Rafael was the father of María Dolores Balanzat y Bretagne, who became the Marchioness of Najera and was a friend and helper to the Infanta Isabel, a Spanish princess.
Early Life and Education
In 1830, when Rafael was about 10 years old, he began his military training in the Artillery class for Cadets. He stayed there until 1834. After that, he officially joined the Army as a second lieutenant and was sent to serve with the "Volunteer of the Crown" regiment in Valencia.
In 1835, he joined the Academy of Engineering of Guadalajara. This academy was very important to his uncle, Lieutenant General Luis María Balanzat de Orvay y Briones, who worked hard to make it one of the best engineering schools in the world when he was the Engineer General.
Rafael finished his studies and graduated on December 11, 1838, with the rank of Lieutenant. He then served during the First Carlist War with the Pontoneros Company, which was a special unit that built bridges, and was part of the Northern Army.
Military Career and Achievements
One of Rafael's first jobs was to help build defenses for the village of Arceniega in Álava.
Two years later, between February 23 and 27, 1840, he took part in capturing the Carlist Fort Segura in Aragon. His actions during this battle were so brave and outstanding that he was awarded his first Knight's Cross of the Order of San Fernando, 1st Class. This special award was given to him by a Royal Decree on April 27 of that year, recognizing his extraordinary courage.
See also
In Spanish: Rafael Balanzat y Baranda para niños
