Today we celebrate the birth of Bernardo O’Higgins
- Admin
- 20 hours ago
- 1 min read
Updated: 26 minutes ago
Today we celebrate the birth of Bernardo O’Higgins (August 20, 1778–1842), Chile’s founding father and a key figure in Latin America’s independence movement.
Born in Chillán to Ambrosio O’Higgins, an Irish-born Spanish colonial officer, Bernardo was educated in Peru, Spain, and notably in Richmond, London. His years in the UK exposed him to Enlightenment ideals and revolutionary thought, which deeply influenced his vision for a free and democratic Chile.
O’Higgins returned to South America determined to fight for independence. As Supreme Director of Chile (1817–1823), he led the country to victory against Spanish rule, notably at the Battle of Maipú alongside José de San Martín. He implemented progressive reforms and laid the groundwork for Chile’s republican institutions.
His legacy is honored in both Chile and the UK — with a bust in Richmond and a blue plaque marking his former residence — symbolizing the enduring historical ties between the two nations.
Image source:
José Gil de Castro, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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