St. Martin's last hours in Boulogne-sur-Mer: What his years of exile in Europe were like

On Monday, August 17, the world commemorated the “Paso a la Inmortalidad” of General José de San Martín, the Argentine hero who led the liberation of Argentina, Chile, and Peru through his legendary crossings of the Andes. His final years were spent in exile in Europe, a period marked by both personal reflection and political engagement. San Martín’s decision to live abroad was not one of defeat, but rather a strategic move following tensions with Simón Bolívar during their meeting in Guayaquil in 1822. This disagreement ultimately led to his resignation, which he believed would help consolidate independence across South America, culminating in the decisive victory at Ayacucho in 1824. However, this decision sparked controversy among Buenos Aires elites, who questioned his loyalty and speculated about his political intentions. San Martín arrived in London in 1824 after the Battle of Ayacucho, seeking to ensure the education of his daughter, Merceditas, while maintaining close ties with political figures such as Simón Bolívar. His efforts to stay informed about developments in South America were hindered by rumors spread by figures like Carlos María de Alvear and Bernardino Rivadavia, who accused him of harboring monarchist ambitions. These accusations damaged his reputation and complicated his interactions with fellow Argentinians in England. Despite these challenges, San Martín remained committed to his vision of regional stability and continued to monitor the evolving political landscape. In 1829, San Martín returned to the Río de la Plata to manage his properties in Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Chile. He left behind trusted administrators to handle financial matters, allowing him to focus on observing the volatile political climate. The region was in turmoil, with the brief presidency of Bernardino Rivadavia (1826–1827) followed by the execution of Manuel Dorrego after a confrontation with Juan Lavalle. These events paved the way for the rise of Juan Manuel de Rosas, who took control of Buenos Aires in 1829. While some historians suggest San Martín adopted a detached stance toward these upheavals, given his deep connection to military affairs rather than politics, he did maintain a cautious interest in the region's future. Returning once more to Europe, San Martín settled in France, where he supported the marriage of his daughter, Merceditas, to Mariano Balcarce. This union strengthened family bonds and allowed him to enjoy the birth of his granddaughter, María Mercedes, in 1833. His relationship with Rosas evolved over time, beginning with criticism of his authoritarian policies but gradually shifting to acknowledgment of the need for strong governance. By 1838, San Martín even offered military services during the French blockade, though Rosas politely declined the offer. During his later years in France, San Martín faced chronic health issues including rheumatism, stomach ulcers, war wounds, cholera, and tuberculosis. His treatments included visits to thermal baths and the use of opium. Life in Paris blended domestic responsibilities with medical care, and he found solace in the expansive gardens of his home. He maintained a routine that combined family life, health management, and occasional leisure, reflecting a balance between duty and personal well-being. In 1830, following the July Revolution in France, which saw the fall of King Charles X and the rise of Louis-Philippe I, San Martín moved to Paris. He rented a house on the street Neuve Saint Georges in 1835, eventually purchasing it. Later, he acquired a residence in Évry-sur-Seine known as Grand Bourg, where he lived until his death in 1850. His final years in France were characterized by quiet reflection and a commitment to preserving the legacy of his revolutionary ideals.