The opposing Spanish force numbered twenty-seven thousand six hundred and ten men.
With the English, were a large number of Americans, some of whom figured later more or less prominently in the war of the Revolution. Israel Putnam, the hero of the breakneck ride at Horseneck, and General Lyman, under whom Putnam eventually served, were among these, as was also Lawrence Washington, a brother of "The Father of His Country."
By the way, the American loss in Cuba during this campaign was heavy. Very few, either officers or men, ever returned home. Most of those who were spared by the Spanish bullets succumbed to the rigors of the tropical climate, to which they were unaccustomed and ill-prepared for.
May this experience of our forefathers in the last century not be repeated in the persons of our brothers of the present!
The defense of Havana was excessively obstinate, and the Cuban volunteers covered themselves with glory.
But, in spite of the superior force of the Spanish, the English were finally successful.
Taking all things into consideration, it was a wonderful feat of arms, one of which only the Anglo-Saxon race is capable.
Nevertheless, it was only after a prolonged struggle that the victory was complete.
At last, on the 30th of July, Morro Castle surrendered, and about two weeks afterward, the city of Havana capitulated.
The spoil divided among the captors amounted to about four million seven hundred thousand dollars.