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BATTLE // May 24, 1866

Battle of Tuyutí

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Overview

The Battle of Tuyutí was a Paraguayan offensive in the Paraguayan War targeting the Triple Alliance encampment of Tuyutí. It is considered to be the bloodiest battle ever in South America. The result of the battle was an Allied victory, which added to the Paraguayan troubles after the loss of its fleet in the Battle of Riachuelo.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Significance

The Battle of Tuyutí was a Paraguayan offensive against the Triple Alliance encampment at Tuyutí during the Paraguayan War, pitting approximately 26,000 Paraguayan troops against a larger Allied force of around 35,000. Paraguayan casualties reached 13,000 against Allied losses of roughly 4,248, making it the bloodiest battle ever fought in South America. The Allied victory compounded Paraguay's deteriorating strategic position, coming after the country had already lost its fleet at the Battle of Riachuelo. Together, these successive defeats stripped Paraguay of both naval control and offensive momentum on land, narrowing its options for reversing the war's direction.

Forces & casualties

Troop strength

  • Paraguay26,000
    medium
  • Empire of Brazil35,000
    medium

Empire of Brazil fielded a 1.3 : 1 numerical advantage

Casualties

  • Paraguay13,000
    medium50% loss rate
  • Empire of Brazil4,248
    medium12% loss rate

Commanders (10)

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Related

6 sibling battles · 1 factions

Last verified June 2026
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