[1] The army was composed of Argentines and Chileans, and included approximately 1,200 auxiliaries who assisted with provisioning and supply, along with a complement of artillery.

[3] Although the army was less experienced, San Martín aimed to lead a properly disciplined and equipped force into battle, not a mere "motley crew.

The second, commanded by Colonel[5] Juan Gregorio de las Heras, took the Uspallata Pass, which at its highest point reaches about twelve thousand feet above sea level.

The smaller northern division consisted of about 130 infantrymen and a group of Chilean expatriates under the command of Juan Manuel Cabot.

[6] Following the victory, they entered Santiago de Chile, where San Martín was unanimously elected Supreme Director.

According to San Martin's military doctrine, colored soldiers would serve better in the infantry branch, among the three arms of the Army of the Andes.