Recognized for his distinguished military career, where he played a key role in civil wars such as the Gaucha War, this June 17, Latin American Freedom Day, Martin Miguel de Güemes is commemorated. Specifically, the date recalls the day of his death, which happened on a day like today in 1821.
The general was born on February 8, 1785 in Salta and his figure is highlighted by the resistance he maintained in defense of the country. Therefore, he remembers the day of his death as the freedom day and certainly the date pays homage to him.
Source: (Public TV)
Known as “the gaucho hero”, Martin Miguel de Guemes It was essential during the liberation campaign led by San Martín. Punctually, he was in charge of containing the Spanish troops so that the hero could continue crossing the Andes, which is why the Latin American Freedom Day.
The role of Martin Miguel de Güemes
Throughout his 36 years, General Güemes carried out different actions that consolidated him as a hero of our independence. In addition to defending the border and allowing the passage of General San Martín in his liberating campaigns in Chile and Peru, he was a key figure in the resistance during the English invasions.
Son of Gabriel de Güemes Montero and María Magdalena de Goyechea y la Corte, at only 14 years old, the man from Salta began his military career after joining the Fixed Infantry Regiment. After standing out in the civil wars, Güemes served as governor of Salta for six years.
On June 7, 1821, José María Valdez “El Barbarucho”, who was part of the Royalist Army led by Pedro Antonio Olañeta, invaded Salta. There, Güemes went out to fight him and was wounded by a bullet. At that moment, he took his horse and headed to a nearby farm.
In that house, he received a visit from royalist officers, who offered him a transfer to the city of Buenos Aires, where he could receive better conditions, if, in exchange, the attack against the royalists ceased. The politician refused and died on June 17, 1821 at just 36 years old.
