Juana Azurduy

Hello, my name is Juana Azurduy. I was born on July 12th, 1780, in a beautiful place in South America that is now the country of Bolivia. When I was a little girl, I did not spend my time indoors. I loved being outside in the wide-open spaces, and my favorite thing to do was ride horses. When I was on my horse, I felt as free as the wind. Growing up, I learned to speak two different languages, Spanish and Quechua, which was the language of the native people in my home. This helped me talk to many different people in my community. My love for my home and my skills as a rider would become very important later in my life.

When I became a grown-up, my home was not free. It was ruled by a king who lived in a country called Spain, all the way across the big ocean. My brave husband, Manuel Ascencio Padilla, and I believed that our people should be in charge of their own land. We thought it was not fair for a faraway king to make all the rules. So, starting in the year 1809, we decided to do something about it. We became soldiers to fight for our home's freedom. I was not just a follower; I became a leader. I even started my own special group of fighters called the 'Leales,' which means 'The Loyal Ones,' because we were so loyal to our cause and to each other.

I want to tell you about one of the most exciting moments of my life, which happened in the year 1816. During a big battle, I led my soldiers in a charge against the enemy. We were so brave and strong that we were able to capture their special flag! This was a very important symbol, and taking it showed everyone how determined we were. A famous general named Manuel Belgrano heard about what I had done. He was so proud of my courage that he gave me a very important job in the army, making me a Lieutenant Colonel. The war was very hard, and I felt great sadness when I lost my dear husband and my children in the fight. But I knew I could not stop. I never gave up hope for a free future for my people.

I lived a long life and was 81 years old when my story on Earth ended. For many years after the wars, people didn't hear much about what I had done. But that has changed. Today, I am remembered as a great hero in both Bolivia and Argentina. People in those countries honor me, and they even call me 'Generala,' which is the Spanish word for a female General! My story is now shared in schools and books to show everyone, especially young girls, that they can be powerful and brave leaders. I hope my life reminds you that it is always worth it to stand up for what you believe in, no matter how hard it seems.