Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

José Miguel Carrera

Role / Field:

Chilean general and pivotal leader in the founding of independent Chile.

Born:

1785-10-15

Died:

1821-09-04

Century / Era:

1785s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

José Miguel Carrera Verdugo (Latin American Spanish: [xoˈse miˈɣel kaˈreɾa]; October 15, 1785 – September 4, 1821) was a Chilean general, formerly Spanish military, member of the prominent Carrera family, and considered one of the founders of independent Chile. Carrera was the most important leader of the Chilean War of Independence during the period of the Patria Vieja ("Old Republic"). After the Spanish "Reconquista de Chile" ("Reconquest"), he continued campaigning from exile after defeat. His opposition to the leaders of independent Argentina and Chile, San Martín and O'Higgins respectively, made him live in exile in Montevideo.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

From Montevideo Carrera traveled to Argentina where he joined the struggle against the unitarians. Carreras' small army was eventually left isolated in the Province of Buenos Aires from the other federalist forces. In this difficult situation Carrera decided to cross to native-controlled lands all the way to Chile to once and for all overthrow Chilean Supreme Director O'Higgins. His passage to Chile, which was his ultimate goal, was opposed by Argentine politicians and he engaged together with indigenous tribes, among them the Ranquel, in a campaign against...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1785 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1785
• October 15 (10-15) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on October 15
• 1821 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1821
• September 4 (09-04) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on September 4

Frequently Asked Questions about José Miguel Carrera