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Holloway, Whats in a name?
The name "Latin America" was coined by Europeans in the 19th century, primarily for political and ideological reasons. While widely used today, it remains a contested term due to its colonial origins, exclusion of indigenous and African influences, and the broad diversity of cultures in the region.
Catalan Atlas
The most important thing to note about the Catalan Atlas (1375) is that it is one of the most detailed and significant medieval world maps, created by Jewish cartographer Abraham Cresques of Majorca. It reflects both European medieval knowledge and North African and Asian influences, incorporating information from Marco Polo, Arab geographers, and African trade routes.
Key aspects:
It was commissioned for King Charles V of France.
Depicts a mix of myth, legend, and actual geography, showing Africa, Europe, and Asia with trade routes, important cities, and rulers.
Features a highly detailed portrayal of the Mali Empire, notably Mansa Musa holding a gold nugget, symbolizing Africa’s wealth.
Unlike earlier medieval maps, it is oriented with the South at the top and emphasizes coastal details for navigation.
Why is Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz important?
She was a Mexican nun, writer, and intellectual who defended women's right to education, challenged gender norms, and became one of Latin America's most influential literary figures.
Haiti Constitution of 1801
The most significant aspect of the 1801 Constitution of Saint-Domingue, authored under Toussaint Louverture, is that it abolished slavery permanently (Article 3), making Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti) the first colony in the Western Hemisphere to do so.
This constitution asserted autonomy from France while still recognizing its sovereignty, established Toussaint Louverture as governor for life, and laid the foundation for Haiti’s full independence in 1804.
Napoleon Bonaparte's letter to Toussaint Louverture
The most crucial takeaway from Napoleon Bonaparte's letter to Toussaint Louverture is that it disguises France’s true intentions—to reassert control over Saint-Domingue and ultimately reinstate slavery, despite Napoleon’s reassurances of freedom and honor.
While Bonaparte acknowledges Louverture’s achievements and urges him to submit to French sovereignty, he subtly threatens him with destruction ("a precipice which… could swallow you up") if he resists. This letter foreshadows the betrayal of Louverture, his arrest, and the coming war that would lead to Haiti’s full independence in 1804.
CONSTITUTION OF HAYTI 1805
The most important aspect of the Constitution of Haiti (1805) is its affirmation of Haiti as a sovereign and independent state, marking the end of colonial rule and slavery. It declares that slavery is forever abolished (Article 2) and that all citizens are equal under the law, regardless of color (Article 3). The constitution establishes the Empire of Haiti under Emperor Jacques Dessalines, with a focus on unity, the importance of military organization, and the protection of the country's independence. It also emphasizes the abolition of foreign influence, particularly regarding land ownership by non-Haitians (Article 12), and promotes agriculture and commerce as essential for national prosperity (Articles 21-23). This document embodies Haiti's commitment to freedom, equality, and self-determination after gaining independence from France.
The Haitian Constitution of 1806
The most important aspect of the Haitian Constitution of 1806 is its establishment of a republican government, replacing the imperial system. It emphasizes Haiti's independence, equality of citizens, the abolition of slavery, and limits executive power to prevent a return to monarchy or colonial rule.
Simón de Bolívar:
Message to the Congress of Angostura, 1819
The most important point in Simón de Bolívar's 1819 Message to the Congress of Angostura is his emphasis on the need for a strong, stable government in Latin America. Bolívar argues that a republican system must have balanced powers and a robust structure to avoid chaos, anarchy, or tyranny. He advocates for a government with a powerful executive, a responsible legislative body, and checks and balances to ensure that no one branch dominates, promoting liberty, justice, and national stability.
Morelos, Sentiments of the Nation
The most important point from José María Morelos' Sentiments of the Nation is the assertion of Mexico's independence from Spain and the establishment of a government based on the sovereignty of the people. Morelos emphasizes the creation of a republic with a national congress representing all provinces, the abolition of slavery and caste distinctions, and the implementation of laws that ensure justice, equality, and protection of individual rights, including the right to property and freedom from torture. The document also advocates for the rejection of foreign influence and the promotion of Mexican national unity and freedom.
