Robert Souper Howard

This article is about the Chilean Army officer killed in the War of the Pacific. For the Chilean Army officer who in 1973 attempted to carry out a military coup, see Roberto Souper.
This name uses Spanish naming customs: the first or paternal family name is Souper and the second or maternal family name is Howard.
Robert Souper
Born (1818-09-09)September 9, 1818
Harwich, England
Died January 13, 1881(1881-01-13) (aged 62)
Tacna, Peru

Colonel Robert Souper Howard (September 9, 1818 - January 13, 1881) was a Chilean soldier, although born in England, who served in the Chilean Army during most of the War of the Pacific.

Early life

Born in Harwich, England, son of Colonel William Souper and Emily Howard. His father, concerned about the education of his sons and looking for a better future for the family, decided to leave England and seek better fortune in France. They established themselves in Calais.

Role in the War of the Pacific

During the War of the Pacific, he joined the Chilean Army a few days before the official declaration of war, on April 3, 1879 as a Captain. He was then selected by Minister Rafael Sotomayor, and was present in the Naval Battle of Angamos.

He became a member of the Army General Staff, and participated in the Battle of Pisagua (November 2, 1879) and the Battle of Dolores (November 19, 1879); helping capture the Peruvian province of Tarapacá, which was effectively separated from the rest of the country.

During the Chilean offensive against Tarapacá, he served under General Manuel Baquedano as his Aide de Camp. Under his command, he fought on the Battle of Los Ángeles, the Battle of Alto de la Alianza and the assault of Arica

He was killed during the aftermath of the Battle of San Juan and Chorrillos in 1881.


Further reading


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