Key Features of the Thousand Days' War (1899-1902)
The Thousand Days War was a civil conflict that took place in Colombia between 1899 and 1902. It was fought between the conservative government and liberal rebels who were seeking political and economic reforms. The key features of this war are:
Causes: The war was caused by a combination of factors, including political and economic inequality, regionalism, and the desire for power by both conservatives and liberals.
Length: The conflict lasted for a thousand days, hence the name. It started on October 17, 1899, and ended on November 21, 1902.
Regionalism: The war was primarily fought in the regions of Cundinamarca, Antioquia, and Tolima. These regions were known for their liberal sympathies, and the rebels were able to gain control of them early in the conflict.
Violence: The war was characterized by extreme violence and brutality, with both sides committing atrocities against civilians and prisoners.
Foreign involvement: The United States provided military and financial support to the Colombian government during the war, while neighboring countries such as Venezuela and Ecuador supported the liberal rebels.
Consequences: The war resulted in the death of an estimated 120,000 people, and Colombia suffered significant economic damage. It also led to the signing of the Treaty of Wisconsin in 1902, which ended the conflict and paved the way for political reforms in Colombia.