Guerra del Pacífico: Lo que nunca nos contaron | José Chaupis en Piensa+ con Miklos Lukacs

Tensions in Peru-Chile Relations and the Pacific War

Overview of Historical Context

• The speaker highlights that the primary focus has been on tensions, particularly marked by the Pacific War, indicating a failure of the Peruvian business class to contribute positively to national development.

• A metaphor is used regarding a ship chasing another, illustrating strategic missteps in historical contexts. The reference to "Covadonga" suggests cunning tactics employed during conflicts.

Introduction of Guests and Topics

• Micros Lucas introduces José Chaupis, an expert in history with extensive academic credentials from notable universities. This sets the stage for a discussion on Peru-Chile relations.

• José expresses gratitude for being invited and acknowledges the complex nature of Peru-Chile relations, which have oscillated between conflict and cooperation throughout history.

Key Historical Events

• José notes that while many focus on the Pacific War as a pivotal moment, relationships began during independence wars when Chile supported San Martín's expedition into Peru. This early alliance is often overlooked.

• He mentions significant alliances formed against Spain during conflicts like the Battle of Callao in 1866, emphasizing collaborative efforts between Peru and Chile prior to their later hostilities.

Political Dynamics Post-Independence

• The conversation shifts to political dynamics post-independence; despite moments of collaboration (e.g., against Spanish colonization), underlying tensions persisted due to political interests.

• José discusses Bolivia's historical ties with both countries, noting how its creation was influenced by independence movements led by figures like Simón Bolívar, which further complicates regional relationships.

Confederation and Regional Hegemony

• The establishment of the Confederación Peruano-Boliviana in the 1830s is highlighted as an important moment that aimed at unifying efforts but ultimately disrupted regional power balances favoring Chilean hegemony in the South Pacific through Valparaíso port dominance.

Historical Context of the War: Chile, Peru, and Bolivia

The Emergence of Valparaíso as a Key Economic Port

• Valparaíso evolved into a modern economic port, strategically positioned for European fleets entering the Pacific Ocean, making it more accessible than Callao.

Historical Ties Between Callao and Valparaíso

• Historically, there was a strong economic link between Callao and Valparaíso during the colonial period; Callao supplied sugar while Valparaíso provided wheat.

The Confederation War Dynamics

• The northern regions did not support the Bolivian Confederation project but instead sided with Chile. Some historians view this conflict as a form of secession war akin to American history.

Prelude to War: Territorial Disputes and Resources

• Bolivia had access to the sea through Antofagasta while Chile controlled Tarapacá. Both nations engaged in resource extraction, particularly guano and nitrate.

Resource Exploitation and Economic Opportunities

• Peru's history is marked by underutilized resources; guano became significant due to its high international demand during the Industrial Revolution. Guano is bird excrement used as fertilizer.

The Importance of Guano and Nitrate

Guano: A Valuable Fertilizer Resource

• Guano was crucial for increasing agricultural productivity in Europe during the Industrial Revolution; it was primarily sourced from islands off Ica's coast.

Transition from Guano to Nitrate

• As guano resources dwindled, nitrate emerged as another vital resource with dual uses—fertilizer and an explosive component for weaponry.

Global Demand for Nitrate Pre-WWI

• Between 1870 and 1914, global powers sought nitrate for military purposes amid rising tensions leading up to World War I.

Geopolitical Implications of Resource Control

Lack of Clear Border Policies in Peru

• At that time, Peru lacked defined border policies which led to neglecting southern territories rich in resources like nitrate.

Foreign Exploitation of Resources

• British entrepreneurs capitalized on these resources while Chilean interests also played a significant role in exploiting nitrates found in both Bolivia and Peru.

Economic Crises Impacting Regional Relations

The Global Crisis of 1873

• The worldwide crisis prompted countries like Peru, Bolivia, and Chile to look towards nitrate as a potential solution for their economic struggles despite foreign control over these resources.

This structured summary captures key discussions around historical context leading up to conflicts involving Chile, Peru, and Bolivia while emphasizing critical insights about resource exploitation dynamics.

Contextualizing the Chile-Peru-Bolivia Relations

The Influence of British Capital in Chilean Companies

• The association between Chilean companies and British capital is significant, influencing future conflicts.

Imperialism and the Second Industrial Revolution

• The period from 1870 to 1914 marks a phase of imperialism coinciding with the Second Industrial Revolution, where scientific advancements played a crucial role.

• Nitrate exploitation by both Chilean and British capitalists becomes a central issue during this era.

Economic Crisis and Resource Exploitation

• Peru views nitrate as a solution to its financial crisis stemming from the global crisis of 1873, while Bolivia shares similar aspirations.

• The Peruvian government under Manuel Pardo mistakenly believes that focusing solely on nitrate will resolve deeper state issues.

Political Landscape in Peru

• Manuel Pardo leads the Civil Party, marking a shift towards civilian governance after military rule in Peru.

• Pardo's administration includes former consignees of guano who lost power under José Balta’s regime.

Nitrate Monopolization and State Control

• Pardo's government declares a monopoly on nitrate production, requiring all extracted resources to be sold through state offices.

• This leads to expropriation of foreign investments (British and Chilean), aiming for state benefit from natural resources.

Misconceptions about Military Preparedness

• There are myths surrounding Chile's military readiness for war; historical context shows that preparations were not as advanced as often claimed.

Geopolitical Alliances and Strategic Errors

• Pardo miscalculates by assuming an alliance with Bolivia would deter Argentina, which ultimately does not join against Chile.

Shifts in Military Focus

• As geopolitical dynamics change, Chile begins arming itself for conflict primarily against Peru rather than Argentina due to perceived threats.

Historical Context of Leadership in Peru vs. Chile

• A stark contrast exists between Peru’s leadership history dominated by military caudillos versus Chile’s more stable democratic evolution with business-minded elites.

This structured summary captures key discussions regarding the historical context leading up to conflicts involving Chile, Peru, and Bolivia while highlighting critical insights into political decisions and economic strategies during this tumultuous period.

Economic Critique of National Development

The Role of Political and Business Classes

• The speaker critiques the lack of commitment from both political and business elites in Peru, emphasizing that countries do not form out of nothing but require a dedicated effort towards national development.

• There is a noted absence of a committed business class in Peru compared to Chile, where nationalism plays a significant role in fostering patriotism among its citizens.

Dominant vs. Leading Class

• The discussion contrasts the dominant class in Peru with the leading class in Chile, suggesting that Chile's combination allowed for an earlier establishment of a stable national project throughout the 19th century.

• An example is given regarding Chile's ability to hold presidential elections during wartime, highlighting differences in governance between Peru and Chile.

Historical Context: Bolivia and Chile Relations

Taxation Disputes Leading to Conflict

• A historical incident from 1879 is discussed where Bolivia increased taxes on foreign companies, which led to tensions with Chile.

• President Melgarejo’s actions are highlighted as he altered border lines favoring Chile, allowing access to valuable resources while providing tax exemptions.

Legal Justifications for War

• Hilarion Daza later imposed new taxes on salt exports, which served as a pretext for Chile to claim Bolivia was violating agreements.

• The legitimacy of Melgarejo's actions is debated; while they were legally justified from one perspective, they infringed upon Bolivian sovereignty.

Peru's Response and Military Preparedness

Diplomatic Failures

• Bolivia sought support from Peru based on a secret defensive treaty but faced challenges due to internal issues within the Peruvian government under Ignacio Prado.

• Prado’s administration struggled economically and restricted military spending at a time when armament was crucial for defense against external threats.

Escalation into War

• As diplomatic efforts failed, including attempts by La Valle to negotiate with Chile, tensions escalated leading to war declarations.

• Ultimately, Bolivia declared war on Chile first; this marked the beginning of broader conflict involving multiple nations.

The Pacific War: Alliances and Outcomes

Duration and Historical Perspectives

• The duration of Bolivia’s involvement in the Pacific War is debated among historians; some argue it lasted until key battles like Tacna while others suggest different timelines based on their engagement levels.

Discussion on the War of the Pacific

Bolivia's Military Involvement

• Bolivia provided military resources to support Peru during the War of the Pacific, initially directing them to Arequipa and later to the Breña campaign led by Andrés Abelino Cáceres.

Naming Controversies Surrounding the War

• The sesquicentennial of the War of the Pacific in 2029 will spark debates over its name; some refer to it as "Guerra del Pacífico," while others argue for names like "Guerra del Salitre" due to resource exploitation motives.

• Various terms are used in academic discussions, including "guerra del guano" and "guerra de los 10 centavos," reflecting differing perspectives on Bolivia's tax imposition that contributed to tensions.

Popular vs. Academic Perspectives

• Despite academic debates, "Guerra del Pacífico" is widely accepted in popular discourse, as evidenced by commemorations such as Francisco Morales Bermúdez’s declaration of 1979 as “the year of our heroes.”

Bolivia's Military Limitations

• Bolivia's military involvement was limited; it supported Peru until the end of southern campaigns but did not participate in naval operations due to lacking a navy.

• Historical context reveals that both Ecuador and Bolivia lacked naval forces during conflicts with Spain, which hindered their capabilities despite having coastal access and valuable resources like salitre.

Strategic Alliances and Geopolitical Dynamics

• Peru signed a secret defensive alliance with Bolivia primarily for two reasons: mutual interest in exploiting salitre resources and preventing an alliance between Bolivia and Chile.

• There were geopolitical maneuvers where Chile attempted to negotiate territorial exchanges with Bolivia, indicating pre-war diplomatic tensions.

Perception of Conflict Initiation

• The conflict between Chile and Bolivia was brief; perceptions vary regarding who instigated it. Some view Bolivia as dragging Peru into war akin to a younger sibling causing trouble.

• The discussion highlights Bolivian national heroes like Avaroa and Grao, contrasting them with Peruvian strategies that could have delayed engagement by declaring neutrality when approached by Chile.

Campaign Overview: Naval vs. Terrestrial Operations

• The onset of hostilities marked a shift where Peru faced challenges from both land (Tarapacá campaign followed by Arica and Tacna campaigns leading towards Lima occupation in 1881).

• Initial military actions began with maritime campaigns due to geographical difficulties within Peru, emphasizing logistical challenges before engaging on land.

• Understanding regional geography is crucial; historical infrastructure limitations made maritime operations essential for effective troop movements into Peruvian territory.

Challenges of Warfare in Desert Regions

Logistical Difficulties

• The region is described as having severe terrain challenges, being a vast desert that complicates transportation and logistics for military operations.

• Chile faced significant logistical hurdles but learned to confront two adversaries simultaneously during the war, starting with maritime strategies.

Leadership and Strategy

• President Prado's bravery in the war against Spain is acknowledged; however, his leadership decisions during combat were criticized.

• Prado's decision to engage directly in battle raised questions about leadership responsibility and governance if he were to be killed.

Naval Engagements and Tactical Decisions

Initial Naval Strategies

• Chile initiated a blockade using wooden ships like Covadonga and Esmeralda while Peru deployed its best vessels, which were outdated.

• Peru’s naval strategy involved sending its best ships to break the blockade despite their obsolescence.

Key Battles

• The Battle of Iquique resulted in the sinking of Esmeralda by Peru's Hascar, marking a significant loss for Peru despite some tactical successes.

• The loss of the ship Independence occurred due to poor navigation while pursuing an enemy vessel, highlighting operational failures on Peru's part.

Historical Narratives and Controversies

Leadership Critiques

• Miguel Grau’s actions are contrasted with those of Prado; Grau is celebrated for his humanitarian efforts during naval engagements.

Political Implications

• Prado’s departure from combat zones sparked debates regarding his motives—whether it was for fundraising or fleeing responsibility.

• Legal justifications for Prado’s exit from combat are discussed, emphasizing that he had congressional approval to leave.

Myths Surrounding Leadership Decisions

Accusations Against Prado

• The narrative surrounding Prado as a thief emerged from political rivalries, particularly from the Aprista party aiming to tarnish his reputation.

Financial Transactions Post-War

• Despite accusations of embezzlement, it is argued that arms purchases did occur post-war but were delayed.

Reflections on Military Outcomes

Overview of Naval Superiority

• The discussion transitions back to military outcomes following key battles; Chile's naval superiority becomes evident after Iquique.

Campaign Developments

• As campaigns progress into Tarapacá and Arica, initial resistance appears minimal compared to earlier engagements.

Key Battles of the Pacific War: The Role of the Monitor Huáscar

Overview of the Conflict

• Discussion begins with the significance of key battles in April 1879, particularly focusing on the capture of Morro.

• The narrative highlights the strategic maneuvers of the Huáscar, which engaged in rapid assaults on Chilean ports, creating chaos akin to a "mosquito" that is hard to eliminate.

Strategic Impact of Huáscar

• For five months, Huáscar kept the Chilean fleet at bay until leadership changes in Chile shifted focus towards capturing it.

• The contrast between naval engagements is noted; while Chilean marines attacked drowning Peruvian sailors, Grau's actions during combat were characterized by honor and respect.

Miguel Grau: A Naval Hero

• Grau's legacy is explored through his documented gestures towards fallen adversaries, including letters to Prat’s widow highlighting mutual respect among naval officers.

• Despite revisionist claims questioning Grau's character due to past political affiliations, he remains celebrated for his military contributions during the Pacific War.

Controversies Surrounding Historical Figures

• The discussion touches upon attempts to tarnish Grau’s image by linking him to slavery; however, his military prowess and respect for opponents are emphasized as defining traits.

• It is acknowledged that while Grau had business ties related to Chinese laborers, this does not diminish his naval achievements or status as a national hero.

Cultural Significance and Legacy

• Personal reflections on visiting Talcahuano reveal how both Peruvians and Chileans honor Grau’s memory despite historical tensions.

• The conversation concludes with an acknowledgment that both nations recognize significant figures from their histories while navigating complex legacies shaped by war.

Conclusion: Reflections on War Trophies and Cultural Heritage

• The dialogue emphasizes that trophies of war are part of national pride; however, cultural artifacts like books looted during conflicts should be prioritized for restitution over military vessels.

• As discussions shift towards other historical figures involved in warfare, it sets up future conversations about contrasting legacies within both nations.

Battle Strategies and Outcomes in the Pacific War

The Aftermath of the Battle

• The battle was won despite a retreat after the defeat at San Francisco, highlighting a paradoxical victory.

• Cáceres faced a critical decision: to take advanced Chilean weapons or prioritize the wounded. He chose to bury the weapons and carry the injured.

• Following this, there was a strategic withdrawal towards Tacna and Arica, setting the stage for future military campaigns.

Political Changes and Military Campaigns

• Nicolás de Piérola staged a coup, becoming president again while deciding to continue fighting against Chile in Tacna and Arica.

• The Bolivian military's last significant involvement occurred during the Battle of Tacna; however, their lack of discipline affected their effectiveness.

Challenges Faced by Bolivian Forces

• Bolivian soldiers were poorly equipped for desert conditions, wearing inadequate clothing and footwear that hindered their combat performance.

• Despite some heroism displayed by Bolivians, their overall contribution was not decisive; they ultimately left Peru isolated in battle.

Key Battles and Their Impact

• The Battle of Tacna resulted in approximately 15,000 casualties, marking it as one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific War.

• Comparisons with European conflicts reveal that while 15,000 deaths are significant for this war context, they pale compared to World War I casualties.

Withdrawal of Bolivia from Conflict

• Bolivia's withdrawal allowed Peru to avoid occupation like Lima experienced; however, it also meant less direct support from Bolivia during key battles.

• This difference highlights contrasting experiences between Peru and Bolivia throughout these military engagements.

Heroes of the Conflict

• Notable figures such as Alfonso Ugarte emerged during these battles; Ugarte had personal wealth but chose patriotism over comfort.

• Boloñesi’s re-enlistment at an older age exemplifies dedication amidst adversity; both figures symbolize heroic sacrifice for national defense.

Battle Insights and Historical Context

The Characters of the Battle

• Discussion of Boloñés, an elderly man returning to war, who funds his own battalion.

• Introduction of Alfonso Ugarte, who returns from Europe with a commitment to marry but chooses to fight in the most dangerous areas.

Courage and Heroism in Warfare

• Emphasis on the courage required to face almost certain death during battles; both Boloñés and Ugarte understood this reality.

• The 19th-century romanticism heavily influenced perceptions of heroism, where dying for one's country was seen as noble.

Controversies Surrounding Ugarte's Death

• A controversial account of Ugarte allegedly charging into battle with a flag before jumping off a cliff with his horse.

• Clarification that historical accounts vary regarding whether he actually jumped; evidence includes testimonies from Chilean soldiers.

Military Defeat and Strategic Shifts

• Recognition that any hope for Peruvian military resistance is fading; Chileans realize Peru is militarily defeated.

• Notable consequences include loss of valuable resources like nitrate and the disbandment of Peru's professional army.

Strategies for Defense in Lima

• Nicolás de Piérola proposes defensive strategies using trenches (reductos), enlisting indigenous people and civilians due to lack of professional soldiers.

• Mention of San Marcos University students forming battalions to defend against Chilean forces led by Patricio Lynch.

The Role of Andrés Abelino Cáceres

• Introduction to Cáceres as a significant figure during this period (1880–1883), highlighting his importance amidst the chaos created by Lynch’s campaigns.

The Impact of Chinese Immigration and the War of the Pacific

Historical Context of Chinese Immigration to Peru

• The battles of San Juan and Miraflores were significant, reflecting the harsh treatment received by Chinese immigrants in Peru, who initially came seeking better opportunities.

• The dire situation in China during this period was marked by instability, with many fleeing from the opium wars and facing exploitation upon arrival in Peru.

• Chinese laborers signed contracts under misleading conditions, leading to their realization that they would be subjected to harsh labor on haciendas.

Military Engagements and Strategies

• The battles were characterized by heavy casualties; despite being poorly prepared, Peruvian defenses showcased remarkable resilience against Chilean forces.

• Nicolás de Piérola played a crucial role in appointing Andrés Abelino Cáceres as a key military leader during these conflicts.

• A significant number of soldiers died not from combat but due to diseases like yellow fever and diphtheria during campaigns such as La Breña.

The Campaign of La Breña

• La Breña represented the last bastion of defense for Peru, primarily taking place in mountainous regions like Junín and Valle del Mantaro.

• Cáceres' leadership led to a prolonged conflict that exhausted Chilean resources and diminished their resolve to occupy Lima further.

Political Developments Post-War

• Following military setbacks, Chile sought peace negotiations urgently; Piérola's absence left Cáceres leading efforts while he traveled abroad.

• Francisco García Calderón became president but resisted signing peace treaties that would concede territory to Chile.

National Identity and Regionalism

• Cáceres emerged as a national hero due to his connection with rural populations; he employed innovative tactics for communication among illiterate soldiers.

• Unique strategies included using colored cloth for direction among troops, showcasing adaptability amidst resource constraints.

Conclusion: Legacy of the War

• Battles like Pucará and Concepción fostered regional nationalism rather than unified national identity among combatants.

• The Treaty of Ancón resulted in territorial concessions from Peru to Chile, shaping future relations between both nations.

Commemorating Historical Events

The Significance of Tacna in Peruvian History

• The year 2029 marks two significant anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the Pacific War and the 100th anniversary of Tacna's return to Peru.

• Tacna is described as a unique place in Peru where patriotism and love for the country are deeply felt, contrasting with sentiments from Lima.

• There exists a difference in how people perceive the Pacific War; while many view it as a defeat, residents of Tacna see it as an act of heroism culminating in their eventual return to Peru.

Implications of Historical Conflicts

• The outcomes of the Pacific War left Bolivia landlocked and resulted in Peru losing Tarapacá, creating lasting impacts on relations between these nations.

• Upcoming elections in Bolivia and Peru could lead to shifts in political dynamics, particularly with right-wing candidates likely gaining power.

Future Relations Among Chile, Peru, and Bolivia

• A potential scenario by 2029 may involve right-wing leaders governing Chile, Peru, and Bolivia simultaneously, which historically leads to more cordial bilateral relations.

• Optimism is expressed regarding improved relationships among these countries if current trends continue towards cooperation rather than conflict.

Personal Experiences Shaping Perspectives

• Personal anecdotes highlight that knowing individuals from neighboring countries can diminish distrust and foster better understanding.

• The speaker shares positive experiences studying in Chile despite historical tensions between nations, emphasizing personal connections over national grievances.

Importance of Historical Awareness

• Concluding remarks stress the importance of history as a teacher; understanding past events helps prevent repeating mistakes today.

• Academics play a crucial role in disseminating knowledge about history to society, reinforcing its relevance for future generations.