Máximo Gómez Born in Baní

Summary

Máximo Gómez Báez was born on November 18, 1836, in Baní, in what is now the Dominican Republic. He gained military experience while young and later served with Spanish forces during the Dominican Restoration War. After Spain withdrew from the Dominican Republic, Gómez moved to Cuba, where his political allegiance changed dramatically. He joined Cuban independence forces after the Ten Years' War began in 1868 and became one of their most capable commanders. Gómez developed and employed mobile tactics, including extensive use of cavalry and the machete charge. After years of exile and political organizing, he returned to Cuba in 1895 as general in chief of the Liberation Army during the renewed independence war. Working with leaders including José Martí and Antonio Maceo, Gómez directed campaigns across the island. He survived the war and died in Havana in 1905.