Benito Salas Vargas (1770 – 18 September 1816) was a military and social leader during Colombia's (then known as New Granada) independence war (1810–1819).
In 1811 he joined the forces of Brigadier Jose Diaz,[1] as part of the army of the United Provinces of New Granada commanded by General Antonio Baraya.
[1] On 8 December 1812, in Timaná, he swore recognition to the Congress of the United Provinces.
[1] On 29 June 1816, he fought in the Battle of Cuchilla del Tambo[1] where the Patriot troops were defeated by the Royalists commanded by Juan José de Sámano y Uribarri.
[1] In September 1816, by order of the Purificación Tribunal,[1] Salas was executed[2] in Neiva's main square, where his hands and head were exhibited.