The Battle of Topáter occurred against the backdrop of rising tensions between Chile and its neighbors, Bolivia and Peru, primarily over the control of valuable nitrate deposits in the Atacama Desert. Following the 1874 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, which recognized Bolivian sovereignty over the territory, Chile's economic interests led to the occupation of the Bolivian port city of Antofagasta. In March of 1879, after Bolivia's imposition of new taxes on Chilean companies, Chilean forces initiated military action, leading to the Battle of Topáter. Chile deployed a combined force of infantry and naval artillery, while Bolivia and Peru attempted to coordinate their troops for defense.

The engagement at Topáter featured strategic artillery positioning and effective naval bombardments from the Chilean fleet, which devastated the opposing forces. Despite attempts at coordinated defense, the Bolivian and Peruvian troops suffered considerable casualties and were forced to retreat. The success at Topáter exemplified Chile's military prowess and asserted its dominion over the contested region. Furthermore, the battle foreshadowed a series of confrontations that would escalate into a full-blown war, fundamentally shifting the balance of power in the region.

Following the battle, Chile would consolidate its gains, leading to an increase in military campaigns against both Bolivia and Peru. This conflict not only shaped the territorial landscape of South America but also set a precedent for future military engagements in the late 19th century, demonstrating the shifting alliances and hostilities that were characteristic of the era.