Key Concepts of Puerto Rican Colonial History

These flashcards cover significant terms and concepts from the lecture on Puerto Rican colonial history, focusing on governance, uprisings, labor systems, and cultural identities.

Autonomic Charter

The 1897 document that granted limited self-government to Puerto Rico and Cuba but did not change their status as colonies.

Ten Commandments of the Free Man

A revolutionary manifesto by Ramón Emeterio Betances promoting universal rights such as freedom of speech, worship, and the right to elect officials.

Lares Uprising

A rebellion on September 23, 1868, led by Ramón Emeterio Betances calling for Puerto Rican independence, quickly suppressed by Spain.

Encomienda System

A labor system in Spanish America granting Spanish settlers the right to use indigenous labor, often leading to severe exploitation.

African Slavery

The forced migration of Africans to the Americas, with many laboring on plantations under brutal conditions from the 1500s to the 1800s.

Jornaleros

Wage laborers who worked for daily pay on colonial estates, introduced after the decline of slavery, but often trapped in debt.

Cuban War of Independence

The conflict from 1895 to 1898 where Cuban rebels fought for independence from Spain, influencing Spain's policy towards its colonies.

Spanish-American War

The 1898 conflict resulting in the end of Spanish rule over Cuba and Puerto Rico, with both islands coming under U.S. control.

Cultural Identity of Puerto Rico

A blend of Taíno, African, and Spanish heritages evident in the island's DNA, music, food, and language.

Economic Exploitation

The utilization of Puerto Rico's resources and workforce for the benefit of Spain, leading to widespread poverty among locals.