Santos Benavides facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Santos Benavides
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| Born | November 1, 1823 Laredo, Coahuila y Tejas, Mexican Republic |
| Died | January 9, 1891 (aged 67) Laredo, Texas, U.S. |
| Place of burial |
Laredo, Texas
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| Allegiance | .svg){kind=small} Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
 Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–65 (CSA) |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Commands held | 33rd Texas Cavalry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Second Cortina War |
| Other work | Merchant, rancher |
Santos Benavides (born November 1, 1823 – died November 9, 1891) was an important leader during the American Civil War. He was a colonel in the Confederate Army. Benavides was the highest-ranking Tejano soldier in the Confederate military. A Tejano is a person of Mexican heritage who lives in Texas.
Contents
Santos Benavides was born in Laredo. His family had deep roots in the area. He was a descendant of Tomás Sánchez de la Barrera y Garza, who founded Laredo.
Early Life and Public Service
Benavides was a respected leader in his community. In 1856, he was elected Mayor of Laredo. Later, in 1859, he became a Webb County Judge. These roles showed his commitment to public service.
Military Career During the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Benavides joined the Confederate Army. He started as a Captain in the 33rd Texas Cavalry. This group was also known as Benavides' Regiment. He was promoted to Colonel in November 1863. This made him the highest-ranking Tejano officer in the Confederate Army.
Protecting Trade Routes
One of Benavides' most important jobs was protecting the movement of cotton. During the war, the Union Navy blocked many Southern ports. This made it hard for the Confederacy to sell its cotton. Benavides helped secure a route to Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. From there, cotton could be shipped to other countries. This was a vital way for the Confederacy to earn money.
Key Battles and Engagements
Benavides was involved in several important conflicts.
- Battle of Carrizo (1861): On May 22, 1861, Benavides fought against Juan Cortina. Cortina was a local Tejano leader who had entered Zapata County. Benavides successfully pushed Cortina back into Mexico. This event is sometimes called the Second Cortina War.
- Battle of Laredo (1864): On March 18, 1864, Union forces tried to destroy a large amount of cotton in Laredo. Colonel Benavides, with only 42 men, defended the city. They fought off three Union attacks at Zacate Creek.
- Battle of Palmito Ranch (1865): In May 1865, Benavides' regiment took part in the very last land battle of the Civil War. This battle happened even after the war had officially ended.
Life After the War
After the American Civil War ended, Santos Benavides returned to his home in Laredo. He went back to his work as a merchant and rancher. He also continued to be active in politics. From 1879 to 1885, he served three terms in the Texas State Legislature. He passed away in Laredo in 1891 and was buried there.
Images for kids
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Copy of Santos Benavides photograph in the Republic of the Rio Grande Capitol Building Museum in Laredo
