Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 212 - The War of the Triple Alliance Part 3: Send in the Canoes!
Jun 13, 2022
In a wild exploration of the War of the Triple Alliance, the hosts discuss the absurdity of Solano Lopez's ill-fated suicide canoes. They hilariously recount General Robles getting lost during an invasion and connect it to managing a fast-food restaurant. Personal anecdotes from quirky Pennsylvania and Kentucky add humor, alongside tales of chaotic naval blunders and the grim realities of war. The gripping final moments of a defiant leader facing execution serve as a darkly comedic highlight, painting a vivid picture of chaos and poor decision-making in history.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Lost Commander Who Faced A Spectacular End
- General Robles got lost during the invasion and was later arrested, confessed, and executed with theatrical acceptance of his fate.
- His second-in-command survived a brutal firing squad that required stabbing to finish the execution after multiple volleys failed.
Suicide Canoes And A Failed River Raid
- Paraguay tried to offset naval inferiority by towing unpowered canoes (chatas) filled with soldiers and a cannon in a surprise night attack.
- Mechanical failures and daylight turned it into a catastrophe where boilers exploded and Paraguay's river fleet was largely destroyed.
Looting Army Leaves Trail Of Misery
- Estegreiba's invasion force looted and marched into Brazil, leaving behind exhausted and diseased stragglers that guided pursuers by a trail of misery.
- The Brazilians repeatedly failed to exploit advantages, often attacking piecemeal and letting Paraguayan forces escape.