Anniversary of the Battle of Rivas – April 11, 2024

History of Anniversary of the Battle of Rivas

In 1856, an American mercenary called William Walker set himself up as president of Nicaragua after conducting a sham election. He also planned to make more military conquests in Central America, a plan that spooked many of Nicaragua’s neighbors. Backed by an alliance of Central American states, Costa Rica’s president, Juan Rafael Mora, declared war on Walker on March 1, 1857. In a famous speech, Mora said, “Countrymen, take your weapons, the time that I’ve been warning you has arrived.” 

Led by the inexperienced Colonel Louis Schlessinger, Walker’s army advanced over the border of Nicaragua into Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Under the command of Mora’s brother, Jose Joaquin Mora, and his brother-in-law, General Cañas, Costa Rica’s army advanced in the same direction. On March 20, 1857, the Costa Ricans attacked and defeated Walker’s forces. The latter fled to the North, believing Mora’s army was there. This allowed the Costa Ricans to gain access to the city of Rivas. When the Nicaraguan forces returned a few days later, they gained some victories and even stationed themselves in the towers of the Rivas church to get a wide firing range. 

On April 11, General Cañas hatched a plan to set an influential Nicaraguan stronghold on fire. After several unsuccessful attempts by other soldiers, a young soldier called Juan Santamaria volunteered to try. He was just 19 years old, and his only request was that his mother is taken care of in the event of his passing. Santamaria was killed by the enemy, who had succeeded in lighting the structure on fire. However, Walker’s force eventually withdrew because of his bravery, significantly contributing to Costa Rica’s triumph. As a result, Juan Santamaria Day, observed on April 11 with national parades and performances, honors Santamaria’s bravery and courage.