Defensa de San Agustín

Abstract

This image contains news about the Supreme Director of War who continued pursuing the Guasca bandits and entered the state of Boyacá, where he was joined by the Colombia and Gutiérrez divisions, commanded by General Santos Acosta. These troops went ahead of Canal's troops and prepared to defend the capital. The Government Council received information that the capital could be temporarily occupied, so forces were concentrated in two barracks, San Agustín and the building of this saint's parents, for defense. Canal, pursued by the army of the Supreme Director of War, reached the square without obstacles and launched a strong attack that lasted 36 hours. Despite the enemy's violence, the defending forces managed to resist bravely. The conservatives, in their bloodlust, resorted to brutal tactics such as burning buildings and throwing grenades, but the patriot forces fought with enthusiasm. Despite the imminent danger and chaos of combat, the troops and citizens present in the city united to save the homeland with heroism. The Supreme Director of War marched with part of the reserve army, leaving about a thousand armed troops and others unarmed to face the enemy. The enemy leaders, despite proclaiming themselves defenders of religion and property, showed their true nature by shamelessly burning temples and looting properties. News published in the newspaper El Colombiano, No 28, March 7 - 1862