Blas de Lezo - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Blas de Lezo was a Spanish naval officer known for his heroic actions during the War of Jenkins' Ear and the Battle of Cartagena de Indias.
- 2. He was born on February 3, 1689, in Pasajes, Spain, and joined the Spanish Navy at a young age.
- 3. Blas de Lezo lost his left leg and left eye during a battle in the Mediterranean in 1704, but continued to serve in the navy despite his injuries.
- 4. He played a crucial role in defending Cartagena de Indias, a key Spanish port in present-day Colombia, from a British invasion in 1741.
- 5. The Battle of Cartagena de Indias was a major victory for the Spanish, despite being outnumbered and outgunned by the British forces.
- 6. Blas de Lezo's strategic genius and leadership were instrumental in the Spanish victory, earning him the nickname "Mediohombre" or "Half-man" due to his missing limbs.
- 7. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed as the governor of Cartagena de Indias after the successful defense of the city.
- 8. Blas de Lezo died of his wounds in September 1741, shortly after the battle, but his legacy as a fearless and skilled naval commander lives on.
- 9. In recognition of his bravery and valor, a statue of Blas de Lezo was erected in Cartagena de Indias, and a Spanish navy ship was named after him.
- 10. Blas de Lezo is considered a national hero in Spain and is remembered for his unwavering determination and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.