Battle of Huamantla


The Battle of Huamantla was a U.S. victory in the late stages of the Mexican–American War, which forced the Mexican Army to lift the siege of Puebla.

Background

Santa Anna left Puebla at the end of September to intercept Joseph Lane's relief column, planning an ambush at Paso del Pintal. Upon learning of Santa Anna's at Huamantla, Lane left his supply train under guard and marched toward that city, with Captain Samuel H. Walker's four cavalry companies leading the advance.

Battle

Walker charged, upon seeing Santa Anna's lancers, driving the Mexicans from the town. Santa Anna led a counterattack, Walker was shot by a civilian in a nearby house, and his men retreated into a church. The Mexicans then retreated to Querétaro.
Lane allowed his troops to engage in a drunken sack of the town. They reached Puebla on 12 October, lifting the siege.

Order of battle

Mexico

Mexican Army: General Antonio López de Santa Anna