Today we commemorate the anniversary of the death of José de San Martín, an Argentine general. This is a public holiday in Argentina, but why? What made this person so important?
If you recall our previous blogs, we talked about him in the independence articles. He was the leader in the movement and successful battles that won independence from Spanish rule for several countries in South America. The main ones are Argentina, Chile, and Peru, and he is regarded as a national hero and the most significant figure in these countries.
Just to give you an idea and reminder of his brilliant strategies during war, during February 1817, “The Army of the Andes” clashed with the Royalist forces at the field of Chacabuco, defeating them and thus liberating Chile from Spanish domination.
San Martín then sent an official dispatch to Buenos Aires which read: “In the space of twenty-four hours they have crossed the highest mountain range in the world; overthrown the tyrants and given liberty to Chile”.
This is why his life, and the commemoration of his passing is celebrated in these countries, particularly in Argentina where it’s a public holiday.
Have fun learning!
