Revolutions in Spanish America

Spanish Colonial Structure

• Spain's Empire divided into Viceroyalties, Intendencies/Captaincies, Provinces, etc.
• Criollos: Spanish descent, born in Americas, faced barriers in politics.
• Peninsulares: Spanish descent, born in Spain, had political privilege.

Political Context

• 1796: Spain & France allied after Second Treaty of San Ildefonso against British.
• British Blockade led Spain to lift trade restrictions with neutral countries.

British Invasion & Local Response

• 1806: British attempted to invade Buenos Aires, defeated by local militias without Spanish aid.

Spanish Political Turmoil

• King Charles distracted, Manuel Godoy (Prime Minister) and Queen María Luisa held power, leading to disapproval and abdication.
• Napoleon invaded Spain, placed his brother Joseph as king.

Rise of Criollos & Revolts

• Cortes de Cádiz: Spanish assembly claiming authority in absence of legitimate ruler.
• Criollos inspired by American and French revolutions, initiated revolts.
• Formation of self-government Juntas initially loyal to Ferdinand.
• May Revolution: Establishment of First Junta in Río de la Plata.

Internal & Regional Conflicts

• Attempt to unify provinces led to military conflict with Paraguay, leading to its local autonomy.
• Buenos Aires sought dominance but faced resistance from other provinces.

Key Figures & Battles

• Simón Bolívar: Influenced by Enlightenment, led efforts in Venezuela and broader revolts.
• San Martín: Raced to prove loyalty in San Lorenzo; significant in Argentina's independence.
• Sucre & O’Higgins: Collaborated with Bolívar and San Martín in critical battles leading to victories in Chile and Peru.

Formation of New Nations

• Independence struggles led to new entities like Gran Colombia, which later fragmented.
• Federal Republic of Central America: Formed from old Captaincy General of Guatemala, later fragmented due to internal conflicts.

Mexico & Central America

• Declared independence, initially united, later fragmented into separate states and civil wars.
• Philippine Revolt: Brief uprising, quickly suppressed.

Final Independence Movements

• Bolívar: Continued efforts in Peru, Panamá, and Ecuador, formed new nations and constitutions.

Brazil's Unique Path

• Brazil: Transitioned from colony to kingdom within Portuguese Empire, ultimately declared independence under Dom Pedro, maintaining stability and national unity.

Conclusion

• End of Spanish Rule: Fragmentation into multiple nations in Spanish America due to revolutions, wars, and internal conflicts.
• Challenges of Unity: Geographical, cultural, and political challenges prevented the formation of a large unified state.