- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- Obscure
- Where:
- Argentina
- Date change rule:
- Every June 17
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇦🇷
The Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes takes place every June 17, marking the death of a pivotal figure in Argentina’s War of Independence. This public holiday in Argentina honors Güemes’s leadership of the ‘Gauchos de Güemes’ and his crucial defense of the northern border. Explore his legacy, learn about his military strategies, and understand his enduring impact on Argentine history.
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History of Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes
Martín Miguel de Güemes was born on February 8, 1785 in Salta, Argentina. He was born in a well-to-do family to Gabriel de Güemes Montero; his father and María Magdalena de Goyechea y la Corte; his mother. From a very young age, Martín Miguel de Güemes was taught philosophy and science by private tutors. He studied at the Royal College of San Carlos. Martín Miguel de Güemes started his career in the military at the age of 23 and was a part of the British invasions of Rio de la Plata. Martín Miguel de Güemes was part of the army that fought the Spaniards in the famous Battle of Suipacha.
In 1819, a royalist army marched into Argentina. In 1820, Martín Miguel de Güemes was caught between two armies; the royalist army and the governor of Tucuman, Bernabé Aráoz in the south. While trying to escape from the city, Martín Miguel de Güemes was shot in the back. After 10 days, on June 17, 1820, Martín Miguel de Güemes took his last breath and succumbed to his injuries.
Martín Miguel de Güemes was called “Hero of the Gauchos,” ‘gauchos’ referring to South American cowboys. Martín Miguel de Güemes was an incredible military leader and an intellectual. It was under his command that the Argentine forces were able to resist the Spaniards and be victorious over them. To honor this great leader, June 17 was declared as The Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes.
Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes timeline
Martín Miguel de Güemes is born in Salta, Argentina.
At the age of 23, De Güemes starts his military career.
Martín Miguel fights the Spaniards in the Battle of Suipacha
June 17 is declared to be the Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes.
Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes FAQs
When is Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes?
In 2026, the Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes falls on Wednesday, June 17. This national holiday in Argentina remembers the death of the revered independence hero.
What was General Güemes's main contribution to Argentine independence?
General Güemes’s primary contribution was his leadership of the ‘Gauchos de Güemes,’ a highly effective guerrilla force. From 1814 to 1821, he successfully defended Argentina’s northern border against numerous royalist invasions, preventing them from advancing south and allowing other independence movements to consolidate.
Is Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes a public holiday?
Yes, the Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes is a national public holiday in Argentina. It was declared a holiday in 2016, recognizing his historical importance and ensuring his legacy is widely remembered across the country.
Who were the 'Gauchos de Güemes'?
The ‘Gauchos de Güemes’ were a highly effective irregular cavalry force led by General Güemes, primarily composed of local gauchos (cowboys) from Salta and Jujuy provinces. They were masters of the terrain and employed hit-and-run guerrilla tactics against the larger, more conventional Spanish royalist armies.
How to Observe Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes
Take part in the Gauchos of Güemes Parade
On June 17, take part in the Gauchos of Güemes Parade to honor the hero, Martín Miguel. Take part in the celebrations where people dress up in traditional uniforms, bonfires are lit, and people keep an all-night vigil of his monument.
Share it on social media
Let everyone know you're celebrating this day. Take pictures of you and your close ones taking part in the Gauchos of Güemes Parade and share them on your social media pages.
Learn more about history
Learn more about Martín Miguel and his conquests. As you dig deeper into the story, you'll come across interesting historical facts that happened in those years.
5 Interesting Facts About Argentina
Fingerprints were used here first
The use of fingerprints for identification was done for the first time in Argentina in 1892.
The first animated film was made here
“El Apóstol,” the first-ever animated feature film was made in Argentina in 1917.
Yerba Mate is a favorite here
Yerba Mate is loved by the Argentines so much that it is sometimes referred to as the national drink.
Beef consumption is high here
With 49.5 kilograms of beef consumed by an average person in Argentina, it is one of the highest beef-consuming countries in the world.
Tango was born here
Tango originated in Argentina in the 19th century.
Why Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes is Important
It gives us a chance to pay our salutations to a great leader
Martín Miguel's courage and fighting spirit need no introduction. He was one of the best leaders Argentina ever had. This day allows us to honor him.
It gives us a chance to do something with our loved ones
The Gauchos of Güemes Parade allows us to dress up and do something fun with friends and family. Tomorrow is not promised, so spend the day with those you love and rejoice.
It gives us a chance to expand our knowledge
This day provides us with an opportunity to learn more about the life of Martín Miguel and other significant characters in history. Do some research and form conclusions for yourself.
