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GENERAL DON MARTÍN MIGUEL DE GÜEMES
Argentina's Hero and Patriot
General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes Day recognizes Don Martín Miguel de Güemes (1785-1821), a hero of the Argentinian Civil War against Spain. Güemes Day is a national holiday in Argentina.
Born on February 8, 1785, in Salta, Martín Miguel de Güemes grew up in a wealthy, noble family. He received a formal education and entered military service at a young age. At just 23, he gained fame during the British Río de la Plata invasion by capturing a British ship using only local cavalry, earning admiration for his ingenuity and valor.
Güemes emerged as a key military and political leader during the Argentine War of Independence. Appointed governor of Salta in 1815, he led the Gaucho War, a series of guerrilla campaigns that successfully defended the northwest frontier from repeated Spanish incursions.
Utilizing local gaucho militias—rural horsemen familiar with the mountainous terrain—Güemes devised unconventional strategies that stalled royalist advances and protected the rest of the revolutionary territory. His efforts were instrumental in preventing the Spanish from regaining control of Argentina.
Güemes’ populist policies, land reforms, and defense of lower-class interests were lauded by his constituents but put him at odds with Buenos Aires elites and central authorities. Despite political isolation, he remained committed to the cause of independence until his death.
He was mortally wounded in battle on June 7, 1821, and died ten days later. Refusing to surrender, his final words reportedly declared loyalty to the revolution.
General Güemes is remembered for his military brilliance and embodying the spirit of popular resistance. His legacy continues to inspire national pride and regional identity in Argentina.
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