Battle of Tarqui between Gran Colombia and Peru

Background. Tensions arose from Bolívar's desire to unite Peru and Bolivia, opposed by La Mar's goal to unify Lower and Upper Peru. The conflict escalated after Peruvian intervention in Bolivia in mid-1828. Peru executed a naval blockade, capturing Guayaquil in February 1829. La Mar occupied Loja and Azuay, prompting Sucre and Flores to concentrate Gran Colombian forces near Cuenca to pressure Peruvian troops.

Battle. The armies confronted at Portete de Tarqui. Gran Colombian troops achieved victory over the Peruvian vanguard, destroying it and forcing withdrawal. However, Colombian forces suffered heavy cavalry losses during the Peruvian charge, making campaign continuation difficult and stabilizing the front. The battle involved specific units like the Junin Hussars and Cedeño Squadron, with significant command casualties affecting the outcome.

Aftermath. The battle led to the Girón Agreement on 27 February 1829, requiring troop removal by March 2. A coup against La Mar in June 1829 ended the war abruptly. The Piura Armistice was signed in July, returning Guayaquil to Gran Colombia. The Treaty of Guayaquil, signed in September 1829, established the first border treaty between the two countries.