The Combat of May 2 marks a fundamental chapter in the history of the fight for independence in Peru. In this confrontation, the Peruvian forces defended the port of Callao against a Spanish invasion, whose causes have deep roots in the political and economic history of both Peru and Spain.
Furthermore, financial disputes between Peru and Spain, including claims of unpaid debts by the Peruvian government to Spanish citizens and companies, added additional tensions to the relationship between both countries. In the following note, we tell you all the details.
Combat of May 2: summary of the historical event
The Combat of May 2, which occurred on May 2, 1866 in Callao, was a crucial confrontation in the history of the country. On this day, the Spanish fleet, commanded by Admiral Casto Méndez Núñez, attempted to regain control of the port of Callao, which at that time was in the hands of Peruvian forces.
Under the leadership of the Supreme Chief of the Republic of Peru, Mariano Ignacio Prado, the Peruvian squadron assumed responsibility for protecting Callao. Heading the Peruvian operations was Colonel José Gálvez, who held the position of Minister of War. The confrontation continued over a period of eight hours. The Peruvian navy proved to live up to expectations and managed to secure victory.
This epic outcome would not have been possible without the courage shown by José Gálvez, who, unfortunately, lost his life in combat along with forty other compatriots. This historic event marked a turning point in the history of Peru, strengthening nationalist sentiment and the determination to defend the country’s sovereignty against any external threat.
Combat of May 2: images of the historical event
Combat of May 2: What are the causes of the Spanish invasion?
Control of the port of Callao was of great importance for Spain due to its strategic position in the South Pacific and its relevance as a commercial center. The recovery of Callao was considered vital to Spanish interests in the region.
Another key factor was internal political instability in Peru, with internal fighting and power disputes between political factions, which weakened the country’s ability to defend itself from external invasion.
Likewise, tensions between Spain and Peru intensified due to financial disputes and claims of unpaid debts by the Peruvian government to Spanish citizens and companies.
Combat of May 2: Who was José Gálvez and why was he relevant in this historical event?
José Gálvez was a Peruvian military man and politician who played a crucial role in the Battle of May 2 in Callao, a momentous event in the history of Peru. Born on January 2, 1809 in Lima, Gálvez stood out for his bravery, leadership and commitment to the independence cause.
In the context of the Peruvian War of Independence, Gálvez joined the patriot forces led by General José de San Martín. His participation in the Battle of May 2 was fundamental, since he held the position of artillery commander in the defense of the port of Callao against the Spanish fleet.
The defense of Callao was crucial for the patriots, since its fall would have meant a devastating blow to the independence cause in Peru. Gálvez and his men demonstrated remarkable resistance and courage in the face of Spanish naval power, which allowed them to maintain their position and guarantee the survival of the patriot resistance in the region.