Mexican general (1829-1862) best known for the unlikely defeat of invading French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 (Cinco de Mayo). Although not a major strategic victory in the overall war against the French, Zaragoza’s victory at Puebla tightened Mexican resistance, and six years later France withdrew. Rare manuscript DS, in Spanish, signed “Y. Zaragoza,” one page both sides, 6.5 x 8.25, embossed Army of the Orient, General In Charge letterhead, July 24, 1862. This General Quarter document dated just two months after the Battle of Puebla, reads, in full (translated): “This General Quarter wants to well determine, overall, that all the Commanders of this Army Corps earn, on account of their assets, the provision of a portion of their pay originating from their employment in the federal offices as pro-rated by the office of which they are in charge; their pay should be discounted by what corresponds to the proportional part of what the other offices earn. And I am telling it to You for your intelligence and accomplishments.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds, one lightly affecting the last stroke of the signature, and a few light creases. Just two months after signing this document, Zaragoza would die of typhus while with his troops in Puebla. A scarce opportunity to acquire this seldom-offered and highly-revered Mexican general. RRAuction COA.
