After burying the dead, the victorious army moved southward from Ayacucho. Cuzco, Arequipa, and other points were surrendered, but General Rodel, commanding the fortress of Callao, refused to accept the terms of capitulation. The fortress was immediately invested by the Colombian and Peruvian troops, and blockaded by a naval force which was lent to Bolivar by Chili. The fortress held out for more than a year, and was not surrendered until the garrison of five hundred men was at the point of starvation. General Rodel embarked for Europe with the soldiers that chose to accompany him, and the fall of Callao was the final event of the war.
As soon as the news of the victory at Ayacucho reached Lima, Bolivar issued the following proclamation:
To the Soldiers of the Conquering Army at Ayacucho:
Soldiers—You have carried liberty to South America, and a quarter of the globe bears witness to your glory. Who could have beaten you off?
South America is full of the marks of your valor, but Ayacucho, Chimborazo-like, rises above all.
Soldiers—Colombia owes you the laurels you have won, and Peru its life, liberty, and peace, not to forget what La Pensa and Chili owe you. The good cause, the cause of the rights of men, has been vindicated by you, in a terrible battle against the oppressors. See, then, the benefit you have conferred upon the human race by your heroic sacrifices.
Soldiers—Accept the undying gratitude which I pronounce in the name of Peru. You shall be rewarded before you return to your beautiful home. No, no, never could an adequate reward be found; your services are beyond any price.
Peruvian soldiers—Your country will ever hold you among the chief saviors of Peru.
Colombian soldiers—Hundreds of victories immortalize you.
Head-quarters at Lima, Dec. 25, 1824.
Honors and rewards were showered upon the liberator's
