Chile–Spain relations Captaincy General of Chile declared Chile as an autonomous republic within the Spanish monarchy. For the next decade, Chilean forces would battle Spanish troops for independence. In October 1814, Chilean troops lost during the Battle of Rancagua which led to the "Reconquista" of Chile by Spain from 1814-1817. In February 1817, troops led by General Bernardo O'Higgins, along with General José de San Martín and the "Army of the Andes" entered Chile from Argentina through the Andes and fought Spain in the Battle of Chacabuco which resulted in a Chilean/Argentine victory. In April 1818, O'Higgins and San Martín's forces fought
Battle of Quechereguas Battle of Quechereguas The battle of Quechereguas occurred on 8 April 1814, during the War of Chilean Independence. The Royalists had taken the key Patriot town of Talca in March, 1814, and an army, under the command of Gabino Gaínza, now threatened to advance on the Patriot capital of Santiago itself. Bernardo O' Higgins, the famous Patriot leader, attempted to intervene to prevent this. Gabino Gaínza had crossed over the Maule river with his forces, advancing northwards. O' Higgins was unable to pursue him during the day, because of the size of the Royalist force. During the night, however, O'