Episode 20: The Battle of Santa Gertrudis
In this episode, host David Flores is joined by historian Homero Vera to uncover the pivotal, yet often overlooked, Battle of Santa Gertrudis. Fought on June 16, 1866, during the French Intervention in Mexico, this clash was the turning point that broke the back of imperialist forces in the northeast and helped return President Benito Juárez to power.
Episode Segments:

• Act I: The Hero of Camargo & The Strategy at Mesa del Ebanito: We explore the military tensions leading up to the battle, including the dramatic standoff between Generals Servando Canales and Gerónimo Treviño, and how General Canales’ local knowledge proved vital to the Republican victory.
• Act II: The Blood Red Creek & The War of the Convoy: A breakdown of the intense, two-hour battle that changed the supply game for the imperialists, the capture of a massive supply convoy, and the immediate geopolitical ripple effects in Matamoros.
• Act III: The Unsung Heroes – Commandant Macedonio Rodríguez & The Camargo Squadron: We honor the brave men from Camargo who formed the backbone of this fight. We read the muster roll of the Camargo Squadron, highlighting the personal sacrifice of Commandant Macedonio Rodríguez Garza and his local men.
• Dicho Segment: A traditional dicho to reflect on the nature of the fight.
• Recipe Segment: A classic recipe for Arroz con Pollo.
• Book Recommendation: A spotlight on The Kingdom of New Spain by Don Pedro Alonso O’Crowley.