Colombia acquired its definitive independence from Spain at the Battle of Boyacá. The Colombian army was led by the strategy of Simón Bolívar, one of the most exciting characters of the history of the Americas. However, the real leader of the army in the battlefield was Francisco de Paula Santander, another important general of the Colombian independence. The battlefield is located about 150 km from Bogotá in the Andes Mountains. Bolivar caught up with the Royalist general Barreiro's army while they were on the road to Bogotá in order to apply the firm hand of the Crown of Spain. While Barreiro's army was divided at a strategic bridge, a surprise attack from Bolivar caused the Royalist forces to be spilt in half. This battle forced the Royalists to surrender. New Granada's liberation was assured by this victory. Diverse people participate in this decisive battle, including the british legion, and some other veterans from the Napoleonic wars.