General José de San Martín is renowned as one of the most important historical figures in South America. Known as the liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru, he is often referred to as el Libertador. During the 19th century, San Martín and his forces were instrumental in driving out the ruling Spanish forces resulting in South American independence.
Early life of José de San Martín
José de San Martín was born on the 25th February 1778, in Yapeyú (present day Argentina), to Spanish parentage. His father Juan de San Martín, a colonel in the Spanish Army, had been based in the area as Lieutenant Governor since 1774.
At the age of 6, San Martín's family returned to Spain, where José was enrolled to study at Madrid’s eminent Real Seminario de Nobles. In 1789, he joined the Regiment of Murcia, commencing his military career as a cadet and over the next 20 years he served his country, remaining fiercely loyal to the Spanish crown.
