The Era of the Carolina Reforms

This set of flashcards summarizes key concepts from the lecture notes on colonial reforms and independence movements in Latin America.

What are the three key terms defined in the chapter regarding reform, rebellion, and revolution?

Reform emerges out of crisis, rebellion is the refusal to accept the status quo, and revolution is an explosion of discontent.

What was the key difference in the outcomes of independence movements between Spanish and Portuguese colonies?

Spain lost most of their colonies to revolution while Portugal had a smoother transition to independence in Brazil.

What was the significance of the Carolina Reforms?

They were Spain's attempt to maintain control over their possessions in the Americas.

What event marked the beginning of European colonial power in the Americas?

The discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus in 1492.

What was the foundational structure of power in colonial Latin America?

European privilege, monopolizing land ownership, trade, commerce, and political power.

How did Spain maintain dominance during its rule over Latin America?

Through the support of the Catholic Church and the military.

What challenge did Spain face from other European powers during its colonial period?

Other European nations like the Portuguese, French, British, Dutch, and Danes established competing colonies and engaged in illegal trade.

What was the impact of the rise in global power of Northern Europe on Spain and Portugal?

The geo-political influence of both Spain and Portugal declined.

What contributed to the emergence of Latin American nationalism by the 19th century?

A fusion of European and non-European cultures led to the formation of new societies and regional identities.

What was the significance of the creation of the Viceroyalty of New Granada and the Viceroyalty of Rio de la Plata?

They represented Spain's efforts to administer its growing empire and respond to demands for autonomy.

How did the stratification of colonial society affect movements for independence?

Divisions by race, class, and gender complicated efforts to unite for independence.

What were some differing definitions of freedom among the various groups during the independence movements?

Creole elites sought freedom from Spain, people of mixed descent wanted governance participation, natives sought freedom from Europeans, and slaves desired freedom from slavery.

What revolutions influenced the independence movements in Latin America?

The American independence in 1776, the French monarchy overthrow in 1785, and the Haitian revolution in 1804.