Battle of Tampico
Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico
What happened
The Mexican army under Antonio López de Santa Anna and Manuel de Mier y Terán fought a Spanish invasion force from Cuba under Isidro Barradas. In 1829 Spain sent troops from Havana to try to retake Mexico. The Spanish landed near Tampico and occupied the town in August, but suffered badly from disease and lack of supplies. After a Mexican attack, the Spanish officers agreed to surrender, give up their weapons and return to Cuba.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was the last major clash between Mexico and Spain and ended Spain's attempts to reconquer Mexico. Santa Anna became a popular hero.
What came next
Mexico abolished slavery on 15 September 1829, four days after the victory.
Did you know?
In the early 20th century, Tampico became the chief oil-exporting port of the Americas.
Timeline
- 13 April 1823Tampico is founded on the Pánuco River.
- 26 July 1829Spanish troops land at Cabo Rojo.
- 11 September 1829The Spanish surrender.