Heroes in the Fight for Independence
- Karen Betancourt
- Aug 15, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 26
By Karen Betancourt
The first cry of Independence in Ecuador would not have been possible without the vigor, intrepidity, and insight of men and women with great desires for freedom. This event, which occurred on August 10, 1809, was the starting point of a series of rebellions that arose around Ecuador, mainly in Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. After 13 years of conflict with the Spanish empire, which consisted of many confrontational moments such as on August 2, 1810, October 9, 1820, and November 3, 1820, the final battle for independence was on May 24, 1822. When thinking about the fight for independence in Latin America I am sure that a series of heroic names come to mind, one of them probably being Simón Bolívar. Known as The Liberator, he was the leader of many revolts that led to the independence of not only Ecuador but also to other nations such as Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia. He is widely remembered as an important figure in the emancipation of Latin America from the Spanish throne. Additionally, one cannot forget the child hero, Abdón Calderón, who participated in almost all the battles for independence. He is commonly remembered for staying in combat despite having been shot four times. He continues to be remembered in schools with a legacy of civility, patriotism, and love of freedom that was instilled in him by his father before he died.
Likewise, the renowned Antonio José de Sucre, the Grand Marshal of Ayacucho, can never be forgotten. Credited for having won the Battle of Ayacucho, which meant the end of Spanish rule, he stood out for his great diplomatic and strategic work in forming the Liberation Army of the South which defeated the Spanish army in 1821. He is remembered for doing his job with loyalty and discipline throughout the fight for independence. In addition, he also participated in the creation of Ecuador as a nation. It is said that Sucre could have been the innate successor of Bolívar due to his strong conviction, morality, and sense of justice. As well as due to his constant fight in the defense of indigenous rights and the freedom of slaves.
