were executed in Bogotá on October 11, 1819, because of the Decree of War to the Death. The bridge in question, el Puente de Boyacá, is no longer in use but it has been maintained as a symbol of the Independence of South America. Historical consequences and legacy The final defeat of Royal forces in the New Kingdom of Granada and the weakening of the rest of the forces in all America. The end of Spanish control over the American provinces, with the escape of viceroy Juan de Samano. The creation of Gran Colombia. The start of an autonomous government in the former Spanish provinces. The subsequent independence of Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador and the creation of Bolivia, after a liberation campaign. Viceroy Juan de Samano was informed of the defeat and managed to escape, which brought to an end the reign of the Spanish Empire in northern Latin America. In commemoration of this battle, August 7 is a national holiday in Colombia. On this date every 4 years the elected President of Colombia is proclaimed in the Casa de Nariño. Bogotá starts the usual celebrations one day in advance in commemoration of the foundation of the city, on August 6, 1538. References External links Conflicts in 1819 Boyaca 1819 Battles of the Spanish American wars of independence Boyacá 1819 in Colombia 1819 in Venezuela August 1819 events