12 Feb The Proclamation of Chile’s Independence

February 12, 1818, marks a crucial moment in the history of Chile and Latin America: the official proclamation of Chile´s Independence. This event, celebrated annually, is inseparable from the Battle of Chacabuco, which took place a year earlier, and the heroic efforts of emblematic figures such as Bernardo O’Higgins and José de San Martín. Let’s delve into this fascinating historical milestone together.

Proclamation of Independence of Chile, illustrated version.

 Historical Context: The path to independence

Chile’s independence is part of a broader movement for the emancipation of Spanish colonies in Latin America. By the late 18th century, several factors fostered this aspiration:

– The influence of the American (1776) and French (1789) revolutions, which spread ideas of autonomy and freedom.

– The weakening of Spain under Napoléon Bonaparte´s rule, forcing Charles IV and Ferdinand VII to abdicate in 1808.

– A growing sense of national identity in Chile, fueled by economic prosperity and a distinct identity from neighboring Peru.

In 1810, taking advantage of Spain’s turmoil, Chilean Creoles (descendants of Spaniards born locally) formed a junta in Santiago to govern locally. However, royalists regained control in 1814 after the Battle of Rancagua. The patriots, led by Bernardo O’Higgins, fled to Argentina to prepare their comeback.

The Battle of Chacabuco: A decisive turning point

Chilean and Argentine troops surrendering at the battle of Chacabuco (12 February 1817) led by José de San Martín.

On February 12, 1817, the Army of the Andes, led by José de San Martín and Bernardo O’Higgins, crossed the Andes under extreme conditions to liberate Chile. Despite significant losses during this perilous journey, the patriot forces achieved a resounding victory against royalists at the Battle of Chacabuco near Santiago.

This strategic victory allowed the patriots to reclaim Santiago and establish a provisional government led by O’Higgins. He became “Supreme Director” of Chile, initiating a new phase in the fight for independence.

Chacabuco on the map

The Official Proclamation of Independence

A year after Chacabuco, on February 12, 1818, Bernardo O’Higgins officially proclaimed Chile’s independence during a solemn ceremony in Santiago. This symbolic act aimed to reinforce the legitimacy of the independence movement against still-active royalists in certain regions.

However, this proclamation was only a step forward: definitive victory over Spanish forces came after the decisive Battle of Maipú on April 5, 1818. This victory sealed Chile’s emancipation and marked the beginning of a complex but promising period for building a stable nation.

Letter from José de San Martín to Bernardo O’Higgins informing him of the patriots’ victory at the Battle of Maipú.

Key figures: Bernardo O’Higgins and José de San Martín

Bernardo O’Higgins

Considered the “Father of the Chilean Nation,” O’Higgins played a central role in the wars for independence. The son of an Irish governor and a Chilean mother, he embodied patriotic leadership and became Chile’s first head of state. His tenure was marked by reforms aimed at modernizing the country, although he was forced into exile in 1823 due to political tensions.

Portrait of Bernardo O’Higgins holding the Chilean Constitution

José de San Martín

Originally from Argentina, San Martín was an exceptional military strategist who contributed not only to Chile’s independence but also to that of several other South American nations. His collaboration with O’Higgins exemplifies regional solidarity in fighting colonial oppression.

Oil portrait of Saint Martin (1921) by Daniel Hernández Morillo.

Why is this date important today?

The proclamation of Chile’s independence is much more than a political act: it symbolizes the universal quest for freedom and self-determination. Even today, this event is commemorated as a foundational moment in the country’s history.

For those passionate about Hispanic history or learning Spanish, exploring these stories enriches not only their knowledge but also their understanding of the values that shaped Hispanic nations.

By studying moments like this one, you don’t just learn a language—you discover an entire cultural universe that brings words to life. So why not deepen your learning with us in Strasbourg? Together, let’s explore the fascinating heritage of Hispanic countries!

You may also be interested in :

– Podcast France Culture . Épisode 2/4 : L’indépendance chilienne, “par la raison ou par la force” ?

Sources:

– 12 février 1818 : Indépendance du Chili

– Bataille de Chacabuco

– Publicación de Armada de Chile

– La guerre d’indépendance du Chili vis-à-vis de l’Espagne

– Batalla de Chacabuco

– 12 febrero 1818: Firma de acta de Independencia de Chile

– Guerre d’indépendance du Chili

– Proclamación de la Independencia de Chile el 12 de febrero de 1818