Benjamín G. Hill, Mexican revolutionary general, governor of Sonora (d. 1920)

General Benjamín Guillermo Hill Salido: A Key Figure in the Mexican Revolution

Born on March 31, 1874, in Choix, Sinaloa, General Benjamín Guillermo Hill Salido emerged as a formidable military commander during the turbulent years of the Mexican Revolution. His life, deeply intertwined with one of Mexico's most pivotal historical periods, concluded on December 14, 1920, in Mexico City. Hill was not merely a military leader; he was a crucial ally and a trusted confidant to one of the Revolution's most significant figures, Álvaro Obregón.

An Indispensable Ally to Álvaro Obregón

The familial connection between Benjamín Hill and Álvaro Obregón Salido was profound; they were cousins. More than just blood relatives, Hill became an unwavering supporter of Obregón from the very inception of his rise to power. During a period marked by shifting loyalties and fierce battles, Hill's steadfast dedication to Obregón proved invaluable, contributing significantly to Obregón's eventual success and his presidency. Their bond was so strong and Hill's military acumen so essential, that he earned a poignant moniker that echoed through history.

"Obregón's Lost Right Arm": A Symbol of Loyalty and Sacrifice

Benjamín Hill was famously referred to as "Obregón's lost right arm." This powerful and evocative phrase was a direct allusion to a significant event during the Revolution: the 1915 Battle of Celaya. In this decisive engagement, Obregón, leading the Constitutionalist forces, sustained a severe injury, resulting in the loss of his right arm while successfully defeating the formidable forces of General Pancho Villa. The nickname for Hill underscored his strategic importance and personal closeness to Obregón, implying that Hill was as vital to Obregón's military campaigns as his own physical arm, an irreplaceable asset in the complex struggle for Mexico's future. The Battle of Celaya itself was a turning point, marking a crucial defeat for Villa's División del Norte and solidifying Obregón's military prowess.

Frequently Asked Questions about Benjamín Hill

Who was Benjamín Hill?

Benjamín Guillermo Hill Salido was a prominent Mexican military commander who played a significant role during the Mexican Revolution.

When and where was he born and did he die?

He was born on March 31, 1874, in Choix, Sinaloa, and passed away on December 14, 1920, in Mexico City.

What was his relationship with Álvaro Obregón?

He was a cousin of Álvaro Obregón Salido, who would later become president of Mexico, and was one of Obregón's most trusted and loyal military supporters from the very beginning of his political and military ascent.

Why was he called "Obregón's lost right arm"?

This nickname highlighted his indispensable role as a military leader and confidant to Obregón. It was an allusion to Obregón's actual loss of his right arm during the critical 1915 Battle of Celaya, where Obregón's forces decisively defeated those of General Pancho Villa.

What was his main contribution to the Mexican Revolution?

His main contribution was his leadership as a military commander and his unwavering support for Álvaro Obregón, which was crucial to Obregón's success in the revolutionary struggle.