Rosa Campuzano facts for kids

Rosa Campuzano Cornejo (born April 13, 1796 – died 1851) was a brave woman who helped Peru become free. She worked for the cause of independence from Spain. Rosa was born in Guayaquil, which was part of the Viceroyalty of Peru back then. She passed away in Lima, Peru. People sometimes called her "the Protectress." This nickname came from her close connection to General José de San Martín, who was known as the "Protector of Peru."

Early Life and Arrival in Lima

Rosa Campuzano was born to Francisco Herrera Campuzano y Gutierrez and Felipa Cornejo. Her father was a wealthy cocoa producer and an officer.

People who wrote about her described Rosa as a smart and educated woman. She had fair skin and blue eyes. In 1817, when she was 21 years old, Rosa moved to Lima. She quickly became well-known in Lima's society.

Helping the Patriot Cause

Rosa's social circle included many important people. She used her connections to help the fight for Peru's freedom. She gathered secret military information from people connected to the Spanish royal army. Then, she shared this information with the Peruvian patriot forces.

Rosa also helped soldiers who left the royal army. She hid them in her home. After that, she helped them join the Patriot Military Forces. Because of these secret activities, she was once held for several days.

Through her work and social connections, Rosa met Manuela Sáenz. They became great friends. They also worked together on secret plans to help Peru gain independence. In 1818, Rosa was even reported to the Inquisition for having books that were not allowed.

Meeting José de San Martín

On July 28, 1821, the city council of Lima held a party. It was to honor José de San Martín and the declaration of independence. General San Martín and Rosa met at this event. The very next day, San Martín hosted another dance at the Palace of the Viceroys. He saw Rosa again there.

Many people said that Rosa and General San Martín became very close. When San Martín gave Rosa the Order of the Sun, some people in Lima's traditional society were surprised. This award was given to 112 women who supported the independence movement. When San Martín left Peru, Rosa and he barely had a chance to say goodbye.

Later Years and Family

Around 1832, Rosa started a relationship with a German businessman named John Weniger. He owned two shoe stores in Lima. They had a son together named Alexander Weniger Campuzano. However, Rosa did not raise Alexander because John took him when their relationship ended.

In her will, Rosa stated that she was married to Ernesto Gaber. She said he left her to go to Europe. Rosa Campuzano passed away in 1851, when she was 55 years old. She was buried in the church of San Juan Bautista de Lima.

See also

In Spanish: Rosa Campusano para niños