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Intro
One of the wars fought for Latin American independence was the Battle of Boyaca. This war was between the South American insurgents and Spanish forces. -
Simon Bolivar
3,300 South American soldiers led by Simon Bolivar fought in the final encounter. Bolívar’s troops attacked the main force a half mile away, capturing about 1,800 prisoners and the Spanish commander. -
Francisco de Paula Santander
For this to work, Francisco de Paula Santander cut off a Spanish advance force near a bridge crossing over the Boyaca river. -
The Other Battles
The Battle of Boyaca was one of six Battles for independence. These include the Battle of Boyaca, Battle of Chacabuco, Battle of Maipu, Battle of Carabobo, the Battle Pichincha, and the Battle of Ayacucho. -
Gran Columbia
The victory of these battles led to the creation of Gran Columbia. Gran Columbia included the modern nations of Columbia, Panama, Venezuela, and Ecuador. -
Fall of Gran Columbia
When Bolivar died, so did Gran Columbia. Venezuela and Ecuador had already withdrawn from Gran Columbia. As the year went by, Gran Colombia passed into history. -
Death of the President
After he resigned, Simon Bolivar left for the northern coast and died, on December 17, 1830, near a place called Santa Marta -
Military Celebration
Bolívar then captured Bogotá on August 10 and was hailed as the liberator of New Granada. He set up a provisional government with Santander as vice president and acting head. -
Inauguration Day
Today, August 7 is a holiday in all of Colombia to celebrate the decisive victory at the Battle of Boyacá. Also, it is the inauguration day for the president every 4 years. -
Public Celebration
This national holiday is celebrated with parades and festivals throughout Colombia. The military will pay homage to the soldiers who fell in the battle. In Bogota, an annual carnival celebrates its anniversary of Hispanic foundation in 1538 on 6 August, so celebrations in the city begin the day before.
