Battle of Las Guasimas Battle of Las Guasimas The Battle of Las Guasimas of June 24, 1898 was a Spanish rearguard action by Major General Antero Rubín against advancing columns led by Major General "Fighting Joe" Wheeler and the first land engagement of the Spanish–American War. The battle unfolded from Wheeler's attempt to storm Spanish positions at Las Guasimas de Sevilla, in the jungles surrounding Santiago de Cuba, with the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry and the 10th Regular Cavalry. Approaching on June 24, American reports suggested the Spaniards were digging in with a field gun; however, Cuban scouts contradicted these, revealing the Spaniards were
Carnival of Santiago de Cuba incorrect to call them by the name "carnavales"; they should be called what we have always called them: "Los Mamarrachos".” In spite of the efforts of “writers, journalists and many traditionalist citizens,” the successive "mamarrachos" of July 24-6 became referred to as the “"Carnaval" of Santiago de Cuba (Pérez I 1988:31, note 3).” Carnival of Santiago de Cuba Whether they are called "carnavales", "charangas" or "parrandas", large public celebrations dating at least (in Santiago de Cuba) as far back as the 17th century are common throughout Cuba. However, among Cubans, the "Carnaval" of Santiago de Cuba enjoys a special status