Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes

Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes: Honoring Argentina’s National Hero

The Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes is a public holiday in Argentina that honors the life and legacy of General Martín Miguel de Güemes, a key figure in Argentina’s struggle for independence. This day celebrates his contributions to the nation’s history and his role in defending Argentina’s northern borders during the early 19th century.

Quick Facts

When is it?: June 17th annually
Tagged as: National holiday, Historical commemoration
What’s the hashtag?: #GuemesDay
When was it founded?: Officially established in 2016
Who founded it?: Argentine Congress

History of Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes

General Martín Miguel de Güemes was born on February 8, 1785, in Salta, Argentina. He played a crucial role in the Argentine War of Independence, leading the Gaucho cavalry and employing guerrilla tactics to defend the northern borders against Spanish invasions. Güemes was the only Argentine general to fall in combat during the war for independence, dying on June 17, 1821, at the age of 36.

Timeline

1785: Martín Miguel de Güemes is born in Salta, Argentina.

1810: Güemes is given command of a guerrilla force of gauchos after the May Revolution.

1815: Güemes is appointed Governor of the Intendencia de Salta.

1821: Güemes dies on June 17th after being shot in combat.

2006: Güemes is declared a “National Hero” by Law Nº 26.125.

2016: June 17th is established as a national holiday to commemorate Güemes.

Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	June 17	Tuesday
2026	June 17	Wednesday
2027	June 17	Thursday
2028	June 17	Saturday
2029	June 17	Sunday
2030	June 17	Monday

Observed Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes

The commemoration of General Güemes is observed throughout Argentina, with particular emphasis in his home province of Salta. Official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events are held to honor his memory and contributions to the nation’s independence.

In Salta, the government organizes special tributes, including flower offerings, music performances, and official activities. Many people participate in the Gauchos of Güemes Parade, dressing in traditional uniforms and keeping an all-night vigil at his monument.

The day is marked as a public holiday, allowing citizens to attend commemorative events or spend time with their families while reflecting on the historical significance of Güemes’ actions.

Fun Facts About General Martín Miguel de Güemes

Güemes joined the military at the young age of 14.
He was nicknamed “Hero of the Gauchos” for his leadership of gaucho cavalry forces.
Güemes successfully repelled seven royalist invasions in northern Argentina.
He created a special military unit called “Los Infernales” (The Infernals).
Güemes was the only Argentine general to die in combat during the War of Independence.

Quiz

In which year was Martín Miguel de Güemes born?
What was the nickname given to Güemes?
How old was Güemes when he died?
What is the name of the special military unit created by Güemes?
On which date is the Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes celebrated?

(Answers: 1. 1785, 2. Hero of the Gauchos, 3. 36, 4. Los Infernales, 5. June 17)

FAQs

Q: Why is General Güemes considered a national hero in Argentina?
A: Güemes is considered a national hero for his crucial role in defending Argentina’s northern borders during the War of Independence and his unwavering commitment to the cause of liberation.

Q: What were the Gauchos of Güemes?
A: The Gauchos of Güemes were a cavalry force led by General Güemes, composed of local horsemen who employed guerrilla tactics to fight against Spanish forces.

Q: How did Güemes die?
A: Güemes was fatally wounded by a gunshot during a Spanish invasion of Salta on June 7, 1821, and died ten days later on June 17.

Q: What is the significance of June 17 in Argentina?
A: June 17 marks the anniversary of General Güemes’ death and is now a national holiday to commemorate his life and contributions to Argentina’s independence.

Q: How is the Commemoration of General Güemes celebrated in Salta?
A: In Salta, the day is marked with parades, official ceremonies, flower offerings, and an all-night vigil at Güemes’ monument.

Importance of Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes

The commemoration of General Güemes serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during Argentina’s struggle for independence. It honors not only Güemes but also the countless gauchos and soldiers who fought alongside him to defend their homeland.

This day provides an opportunity for Argentinians to reflect on their national history and the values of courage, patriotism, and strategic leadership embodied by Güemes. It helps to foster a sense of national pride and unity among citizens.

Furthermore, the commemoration encourages education about this important historical figure, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the foundations upon which their nation was built.