Towards Caseros

Urquiza knew that time was against Argentina's president. After the Blanco's defeated, the Uruguayan territory fell in full control of the Colorados under Joaquin Suarez.

Besides, from October until December, 1851 the Allies strengthened their position by making contacts with others discontents with Rosas' policy. This way, while Rosas' forces decreased, new volunteers joined the Liberation Army (as the Allied Army was known).

Finally, the comunications by sea with foreign countries were closed to Buenos Aires since the Imperial Navy took control of the rivers. Thus, Rosas had no hope of receiving supplies and ammunition from abroad. Nevertheless, a long campaign was expected.

At this stage Urquiza was distressed with some troubles. To overthrow Rosas, Brazilian aid would be necessary, but the presence of the Imperial Army on the Argentinean soil could melt down the alliance with the povinces. He would have to play a dangerous game with his allies.

A point of agreement was reached when the Allied Command established that Urquiza would be the commander-in-chief of the Liberation Army. He would lead the Army into Argentina. The Bulk of the Imperial Army (some 10,000 men) would be placed in Uruguay as reserve. For political reasons Urquiza expected not to be forced to make use of them for fear of the anti-brazilian feeling in some of  Argentineans Provinces. Urquiza himself would lead some 27,000 troops( 2,000 Uruguayans; 4,000 Brazilians and 21,000 Argentineans). Meanwhile, the Imperial Navy would be kept in the nearby in order to land the reserves, if necessary, and give support when possible.

On December 23, 1851 the army was put into march. On the contrary of expectations, no serious opposition was made by Rosas forces. This fact is interpreted by some that Rosas' officers' loyalty were doubtful. Others, however, pointed that Rosas himself were not aware of the force opposed to him, treating off-handedly the preparatives for the coming battle. By February 1, 1852 the Liberation Army camped in the vicinity of Buenos Aires.

Rosas' cavalry

The following day Rosas army marched towards the enemy, deploying his troops on the profitable position of Caseros hills on the other side of a brook called Moron. Rosas was at the head of his army with 22,000 men ( 1,000 artillery; 13,000 cavalry and 8,000 infantry) and 56 guns. Almost immediately the vanguard of the two armies started firing at each other.

Urquiza, for his turn, had at his orders 25,000 men ready for fight ( 1,000 artillery, 16,000 cavalry and 8,000 infantry) and 45 cannons.

The field was somewhat uneven, but thanks to vast fields around the area, cavalry would have the chance of playing a great rule in the coming battle. The two armies were prepared to fight.   To Battle  of Caseros