Juan Santamaría was a Costa Rican national hero known for his bravery during the Filibuster War in the mid-19th century. Born in 1831, he became famous for his role in the battle against the American adventurer William Walker, who attempted to take control of Central America. Santamaría is best remembered for his courageous act of setting fire to the enemy's stronghold in Rivas, Nicaragua in 1856. This decisive action helped secure a victory for the Costa Rican forces, and he is celebrated as a symbol of patriotism and sacrifice in Costa Rica today.