Tarata
Heroes of Tarata
1. Colonel Gregorio Albarracín Lanchipa
He is, without a doubt, the most emblematic hero of the Tacna region, and his figure is intimately linked to the resistance in Tarata.
Nickname: The "Centaur of Vilcas".
Context: He participated in several Peruvian conflicts, but is remembered for his role in the War of the Pacific (1879-1883).
Role in Tarata: After the Battle of Alto de la Alianza (1880), Colonel Albarracín retreated with his loyal troops to the highlands of Tarata to organize the endurance. From there, he launched surprise raids against the invading Chilean army, taking advantage of the geography of hills and ravines.
Sacrifice: He died in combat at Saucini (near Tarata) on October 2, 1882, along with his son, Lieutenant Rufino Albarracín. His remains rest in the Crypt of Heroes in Lima.
2. Manuel Primero Franco Rafael
It represents civic resistance and loyalty during the Chilean occupation (the period known as the Captivity).
Context: He was born in Tarata in 1874 and was a direct witness to the Chilean occupation after the War of the Pacific.
Feat: He is remembered for his sharp response to the Chilean police, who were trying to persuade him to vote in favor of Chile in the plebiscite that would decide the fate of the region.
Historical Phrase: When pressed, Manuel Primero Franco responded: ""I will vote for Peru because I am Peruvian."", symbolizing the unbreakable spirit of the people of Tarata.
3. Ramón Copaja (Chief Copaja)
A hero of Independence, prior to the War of the Pacific, demonstrating the ancient libertarian spirit of Tarata.
Context: He participated in the first independence movements against the Spanish crown at the beginning of the 19th century.
Role: Despite his comfortable position as chief of Tarata, he abandoned his post to organize a mob (guerrilla force).
Collaboration: He led his warriors from Tarata to Tacna to support the insurrection led by the hero Francisco de Zela in 1811, one of the first liberation feats in Peru.
4. The Martyrs of Captivity and Reintegration
In addition to the individual figures, Tarata pays tribute to the civilian martyrs who lost their lives defending Peruvian identity during the period of Chilean occupation, which led to Tarata's reintegration into Peru in 1925.
Máximo Ticona: A martyr from Tarata, whose symbolic remains were part of the province's tribute.
Many other Tarata residents without names: Citizens, guerrillas and muleteers who gave their lives in the fight for Independence and resistance in the War of the Pacific.
Tarata's heroic contribution is not limited to great battles, but to daily resistance and civic firmness in the face of occupation.
