Hacienda Camarón was the site of a remarkable confrontation during the French intervention in Mexico, which began in 1861. On April 30, 1863, a patrol of 65 men from the French Foreign Legion, commanded by Captain Jean Danjou, found themselves encircled by a significantly larger Mexican force of nearly 2,000 soldiers led by General José María Arteaga. The Legionnaires had been tasked with securing a route for supplies and reinforcements but were caught unprepared while defending their position. In the ensuing fight, the French soldiers exhibited extraordinary valor, employing tight military formations and combat tactics to resist the overwhelming assault. Their decision to stand their ground, rather than retreat, turned the engagement into a symbol of undying courage and sacrifice.

The fierce combat lasted several hours, with the white flag of surrender being offered multiple times by the Mexican commanders, but the Legionnaires continued to resist gallantly. One of the most notable aspects of the defense was the use of the improvised barricades and the strategic advantages of the hacienda's location. Even as casualties mounted and ammunition dwindled, the men held their position until the very end. Ultimately, only a few survivors managed to escape, with the rest falling in battle. Afterward, the French military awarded its fallen soldiers with honors, solidifying their legacy in the annals of military history.

Camarón became a point of inspiration for the French Foreign Legion, serving as a defining moment that exemplified their code of honor and esprit de corps. It celebrated the ultimate sacrifice made by the Legionnaires and transformed into a poignant symbol of loyalty, military discipline, and brotherhood among the ranks. The event has been commemorated by the Legion annually, and it is remembered with great respect both within France and among military historians worldwide.