Mexico honors Manuela Molina, captain in independence war

In September 2024 and 2026, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum publicly recognized Manuela Molina, a woman who led troops during the Mexican War of Independence. Known as ‘La Capitana’ or ‘La Barragana’, Molina earned the rank of captain in 1811 from the Suprema Junta Nacional Americana, the first insurgent government of Mexico.

She then received another appointment as captain in Temascaltepec from the Suprema Junta de Zitácuaro in 1812. Molina commanded a troop of around 60 Indigenous and mixed-race soldiers.

Historical records show she successfully challenged royalist forces in battle, gaining recognition for her patriotism and skill with firearms and troop direction. She fought in battles at Monte de las Cruces, Aculco, Jilotepec, and Zitácuaro, among others. Born in Taxco, Guerrero, Molina was originally a student who left school to work and join the fight for social justice.

She joined the insurgent army in 1810 and fought alongside José María Morelos y Pavón during the occupation of Acapulco and other key campaigns. She traveled over 100 leagues to meet Morelos, expressing her willingness to die for the insurgent cause. Manuela Molina died on March 2, 1822, in Texcoco, from lance wounds sustained after Mexico achieved independence.