José Francisco de San Martín y Matorras

José de San Martín (February 25, 1778 – August 17, 1850), often referred to as "the Liberator of Argentina, Chile, and Peru," was an Argentine general and a key leader in the southern and central regions of South America's fight for independence from the Spanish Empire. He served as the Protector of Peru. Born in Yapeyú, Corrientes (now in Argentina), he left the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata at the age of seven to pursue his studies in Málaga, Spain.

San Martín is celebrated as a national hero in Argentina, Chile, and Peru, known for his military leadership and his role as one of the Liberators of Spanish South America. The Order of the Liberator General San Martín (Orden del Libertador General San Martín), established in his honor, is the highest award given by the Argentine government.