The Battle of ??
?? in San Diego, California

The Battle of San Pascual was a military encounter that occurred during the Mexican-American War in what is now San Diego County, California, on the December 6 and 7, 1846. The outcome was favorable to the Mexicans — the Californios and Presidial Lancers defeated Stephen W. Kearny.

Shortly after entering California from Santa Fe, General Kearny had sent back 200 of his 300 troops after hearing that Los Angeles had surrendered to the Mexican side. Along with Lieutenant Archibald Gillespie, the American side amounted to 179, whereas his opponents numbered 100. Despite the low numbers, he attacked the Californios' encampment at the Native American settlement of San Pascual upon learning of it, for he mistakenly believed they would not match up. Andrés Pico, leader of the Californios, strategically defeated the U.S. troops, killing nineteen – Kearny himself was injured. The Mexicans had just 11 wounded. Where the Americans had firearms, Pico's men used only lances and swords.

On December 12, the Americans retreated under the cover of darkness for San Diego. Despite the actual events, Kearny would later recall the battle as a victory for the United States.