In fact, Uruguay had no profissional land force until the ende of the war against Solano Lopez, but each man capable to grasp a weapon was linked to a militia or military group.
Nevertheless, the political ability of some Uruguayans leaders gained the country's independence in 1828, when Argentina's and Brazil's interests were confronted in favor of Uruguay claim of libery from both countries.
The Uruguayan cavalry were reputed as an efficient branch of the army. It gained its reputation during the hard campaings first against the Argentineans, then, when the enemy became the Imperial Army, against Brazilians troops.
Unfortunately, in the conflict against Paraguay the cavalry played no important role and the Uruguayan forces had to adapt themselves to the marshes and swamps battlefields of Paraguay.
