Episode notes
In 1856, an American adventurer named William Walker exploited a domestic conflict in Nicaragua by seizing the urban center of Granada with a tiny band of fighters. Dubbed filibusters, Walker and his followers aimed to carve out English-speaking territories under his personal command, eventually gaining official U.S. recognition for his regime. A crucial turning point arrived during the Battle of San Jacinto, where a local force led by Colonel José Dolores Estrada successfully routed Walker's troops after a fierce four-hour engagement. Although this clash did not immediately end his occupation, it served as the vital catalyst for his ultimate downfall. Ultimately, a united alliance of Central American military forces forced Walker from power in 1857, leading to his arrest and deportation back to the United States.