Revolutionary Committee of Puerto Rico Founded (1867)

Sun Jan 06, 1867

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Image: An artistic depiction of the Grito de Lares by Leonardo Rivera

On this day in 1867, the Revolutionary Committee of Puerto Rico was founded by exiled revolutionaries to fight for independence from Spain. These revolutionaries included Juan Ríus Rivera, Segundo Ruiz Belvis, Ramón Emeterio Betances, and José Francisco Basora.

The Committee began planning an armed revolution in Puerto Rico in early 1868, issuing several “Proclamas” criticizing Spanish exploitative practices and demanding rebellion against the government. On September 23rd, 1868, the Revolutionary Committee, led by Betances, declared independence in the city of Lares, Puerto Rico, calling it the Republic of Puerto Rico.

Several hundred rebels took over city hall, looted stores owned by “peninsulares” (Spanish-born men), and took some of the store owners prisoner. The revolutionary uprising was suppressed by the Spanish militia, and around 475 rebels were imprisoned. The event became known as “El Grito de Lares” (shown).