Dominican Republic's David vs Goliath: How 800 Soldiers Defeated 15,000

The Battle of Las Carreras: A David and Goliath Story of Dominican Resilience On April 21, 1849, the young Dominican Republic faced a formidable challenge: a full-scale invasion by the much larger and better-equipped Haitian army. The battle, fought near the Las Carreras pass, became a pivotal moment in Dominican history, showcasing the nation's courage and determination. The Haitian president, Faustino Soulouque, led an army of over 15,000 soldiers, well-trained and armed. In contrast, the Dominicans mustered only 800 soldiers, primarily infantry and cavalry, lacking the crucial support of artillery. Despite this overwhelming disparity, the Dominicans, under the command of Pedro Santana, stood their ground. "The Haitian superiority was evident," says Iván Gatón, a geopolitics expert, in a recent video. "But the bravery of the Dominican soldiers turned the tide." The battle raged for over an hour, a fierce clash of infantry and cavalry. Dominican Lieutenant Colonel Marcos Evangelista and Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Sosa distinguished themselves in the fighting. Colonel Pascual Ferrrer led a crucial cavalry charge that helped to break the Haitian lines. Ultimately, the Dominicans forced the Haitian army to retreat into the mountains. The Battle of Las Carreras was a testament to the spirit of the young Dominican Republic, proving that even against overwhelming odds, courage and determination can prevail.