Policarpa Salavarrieta, known as La Pola, stands as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and unwavering determination in Colombia’s history. Her story is one of resilience and sacrifice, making her an iconic figure in the fight for independence from Spanish rule.
Policarpa Salavarrieta’s early life and revolutionary spirit
Born on January 26, 1795, in Guaduas, a small town near Bogota, Policarpa displayed a strong sense of justice and an indomitable spirit from a young age. Growing up under Spanish colonial rule, she witnessed firsthand the oppression and injustices suffered by her fellow Colombians. These experiences fueled her determination to fight for freedom and independence.
As the struggle for independence intensified, La Pola joined the underground resistance, gathering vital information and supporting the revolutionary cause. Her intelligence and bravery made her a key figure in the clandestine network, using her position as a seamstress to extract intelligence from Spanish loyalists and relay it to the revolutionaries.
La Pola’s arrest and sacrifice for Colombia
Unfortunately, La Pola’s activities did not go unnoticed by the Spanish authorities. In November 1817, she was arrested by Royalist forces and subjected to interrogation and torture. Despite the immense physical and emotional pain she endured, she refused to betray her compatriots or compromise her beliefs. Her unwavering loyalty to the cause of independence and her defiance in the face of adversity made her a symbol of courage and resilience.
On November 14, 1817, La Pola met her execution with unshaken bravery. She was publicly executed by a firing squad, becoming a martyr for Colombian independence. Her sacrifice and steadfast commitment to the ideals of freedom and justice have made her an enduring symbol of resistance and national pride.
Colombia has honored La Pola by naming streets, parks, and squares after her. Her image appears on Colombian currency, further cementing her status as a national hero. Her story has been immortalized in literature, art, and theater, ensuring that future generations continue to learn about her extraordinary life and legacy.