Overview
This lecture covers the causes, key players, and outcomes of Latin American independence movements, focusing on their complexities, social structure, and the degree of revolutionary change achieved.
Colonial Society and Social Structure
- Colonial Latin America was controlled by the Spanish/Portuguese crown, the Catholic Church, and patriarchy.
- The colonies produced revenue for Europe, mainly through the "royal fifth" tax.
- The Church influenced daily life, including the weekly schedule and public timekeeping.
- Patriarchy imposed strict gender roles and property rights, restricting women's freedoms.
- Social hierarchy included Peninsulares (Spaniards), Creoles (American-born Europeans), Native Americans, and Africans, plus many mixed-race groups.
- Racial classifications were formalized but could be changed through "gracias al sacar" for social advancement.
- Latin America was notable for transculturation, blending European, Native, and African cultures.
Major Independence Movements
Brazil
- Ruled by Portugal, Brazil’s independence was relatively conservative and led by Creoles.
- The Portuguese royal family fled to Brazil during Napoleon’s rule and later left Prince Pedro in charge.
- In 1822, Pedro declared Brazilian independence and became king, preserving the social hierarchy.
- Brazil abolished slavery late, in 1888.
Mexico
- Napoleon’s invasion of Spain in 1808 destabilized New Spain (Mexico).
- Early uprisings led by Padre Hidalgo and later Father Morelos were peasant-driven but lacked elite support.
- Mexican independence was achieved in 1821 by a Creole-elite alliance under Iturbide and Guerrero.
- Iturbide briefly became king before Mexico became a republic, but change for peasants was limited.
Venezuela and South America
- Creole elites in Caracas led an initial revolt, but were opposed by Llaneros (mixed-race cowboys).
- Simon Bolivar united classes under South American identity, leading campaigns for independence across the continent.
- JosĂ© de San MartĂn led independence movements in Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
- By 1824, Spanish rule ended with the defeat of the last viceroy at Ayacucho.
Outcomes and Legacy
- By 1825, nearly all of Latin America was independent from Europe.
- Popular sovereignty was established, but traditional elites stayed in power.
- The Catholic Church and patriarchy remained influential; women’s rights progressed slowly.
- Independence wars were bloody and didn't always bring stability; many military dictatorships followed.
- Ideas of freedom and revolution were complex and often not fully realized.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Peninsulares — Spaniards born in Spain, living in the Americas.
- Creoles — People of European descent born in the Americas.
- Transculturation — Blending of cultures from Europe, Africa, and Native America.
- Gracias al sacar — Legal mechanism allowing mixed-race or lower-caste individuals to become “legally white.”
- Popular sovereignty — Principle that authority comes from the people, not monarchs.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key independence leaders (Bolivar, San MartĂn, Hidalgo, Morelos, Iturbide).
- Study the effects of social hierarchy and transculturation on post-independence Latin America.