Battle of Catirai

The Battle of Catirai was a battle that took place on January 7, 1569, in the Catirai region in Chile during the Arauco War. The battle was fought between Mapuche forces led by the chieftains Llanganabal and Millalelmo, and forces of the Spanish Empire led by General Martín Ruiz de Gamboa, and it resulted in a Mapuche victory. The Mapuches successfully defended their wooden fort on a hill against a Spanish attack. Martin Ruiz de Gamboa was publicly condemned for the Spanish defeat at Catirai. He became disgraced among the Spanish colonists of Chile, and he even had his encomienda confiscated by the colonial government for his defeat. The Mapuches celebrated their victory at Catirai by partying for several days.