Dominican Republic's David vs Goliath Victory: The Battle of Las Carreras

The Battle of Las Carreras: A David and Goliath Story of Dominican Resilience On April 21, 1849, the small but determined Dominican Republic faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge: an invasion by the much larger Haitian army. The battle, fought near the strategic Las Carreras pass, became a pivotal moment in Dominican history, showcasing the nation's courage and resilience. The Haitian president, Faustino Soulouque, led a force of over 15,000 well-equipped soldiers. In contrast, the Dominican army numbered only about 800. The Dominicans, under the command of Pedro Santana, were primarily infantry and cavalry, lacking sufficient artillery support. "The Haitian superiority was evident," explains Iván Gatón, a geopolitical expert. "They had the firepower to easily overwhelm the Dominicans." Despite the overwhelming odds, the Dominicans fought with extraordinary bravery. Lieutenant Colonel Marcos Evangelista and Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Sosa played crucial roles in the counterattack. Colonel Pascual Ferrer led a daring cavalry charge. The Dominicans' fierce resistance, lasting over an hour, forced the Haitians to retreat into the mountains. The Battle of Las Carreras stands as a testament to the Dominican people's unwavering spirit. Their victory against a superior force secured their sovereignty and remains a symbol of national pride.