Manuel García Banqueda

Who was Manuel García Banqueda?

General Manuel García Banqueda was a Chilean military and political figure.

García Banqueda was born in Santiago, the son of Antonio García, Lieutenant in the "Dragones de la Reina" and of Juana Banqueda. In 1817, he became a cadet in the recently formed Military Academy, created by Bernardo O'Higgins that year. He fought in the Battle of Maipú, during the Chilean War of Independence. He also participated in the Valdivia and Chiloé campaigns of 1825 and 1826. He married Dolores Carmona Fonseca, and they had several children.

García Banqueda was promoted to captain in 1824, and participated in the Occupation of the Araucanía during the later stages of the Arauco War, against the Araucanian bands of Mariluán. He was also present at the capture of the Roquecura castle and the battle of Bellavista. In 1828, he campaigned against the Pincheira brothers. During the War of the Confederation he fought at the battles of Portada de Guías, Chiquián, Buin, Yungay, and in the capture of Lima. He was promoted to Colonel on the field of Yungay as a reward for his bravery.

In 1834 he was elected Deputy for "Rancagua" until 1837. He was a firm supporter of minister Diego Portales.