Latin American Independence

What were the major causes of the Latin American independence movements?

Colonial oppression, Enlightenment ideals, and Spain and Portugal's weakness during the Napoleonic Wars.

Fill in the Blank: The independence movement in Haiti was primarily driven by __________ against slavery.

the fight against slavery.

Simón Bolívar

A Venezuelan military and political leader known as 'El Libertador,' who led independence movements in multiple South American countries.

José de San Martín

An Argentine general who played a critical role in the independence of Argentina, Chile, and Peru from Spanish rule.

How did Bolívar and San Martín differ in their visions for post-independence governance?

Bolívar aimed for a republic with unity among nations, while San Martín preferred establishing monarchies.

Social Hierarchy (Peninsulares, Creoles, Mestizos, Mulattos)

A social structure in colonial Latin America that determined a person’s social status and rights based on ethnicity and origin.

What was the Cadiz Constitution?

The liberal constitution of 1812 that provided for a constitutional monarchy while confirming Spain’s control of Latin America.

Fill in the Blank: The __________ sparked the Mexican War of Independence.

Grito de Dolores.

Mercantilism

An economic policy that emphasizes the importance of accumulating monetary reserves through a positive balance of trade.

What did the Monroe Doctrine state?

The United States would oppose European intervention in the Americas, supporting Latin American independence.

What were the Bourbon Reforms?

Reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority in Spanish colonies by reorganizing governance and increasing economic regulation.

Peninsular War

Conflict resulting from Napoleon’s invasion of Spain, leading to increasing nationalism among the Spanish people and weakening Spanish control over colonies.

What role did the Enlightenment play in Latin American independence?

It spread ideas of liberty, equality, and self-determination, inspiring leaders like Bolívar and Hidalgo.

Fill in the Blank: __________ was the first country to abolish slavery in Latin America under Vicente Guerrero.

Mexico.

What is a Caudillo?

An authoritarian military and political leader commonly found in Latin America, often ruling through personal loyalty.

The Jamaica Letter

A letter written by Simón Bolívar outlining his vision for a united South America and the challenges faced in achieving independence.

Fill in the Blank: The __________ was an important meeting between Bolívar and San Martín to discuss the liberation of South America.

Guayaquil Conference.

El Grito de Dolores

A speech by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810 that initiated the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule.

Crisis of Legitimacy

A period in May 1808 when Spanish people rose up against Joseph Bonaparte, establishing local juntas and opposing French control.

Liberal vs. Conservative Differences

Liberals sought rapid reform and reduced church power, while conservatives aimed to maintain the traditional social order.

How did independence movements affect social structure in Latin America post-independence?

Deep inequalities persisted despite the political changes, and social hierarchies remained largely intact.