Chapter_26 (2)

Consolidation of Latin America

• Post-independence, Latin America faces challenges in political organization and economic growth.

• Industrialization is often tied to political reforms in Europe and the U.S., whereas Latin America struggles to achieve both simultaneously.

Comparison of Revolutionary Paths

• Western Hemisphere Influence: Latin American revolutions are influenced by the American and French Revolutions.

• Political Instability: Latin America experiences political chaos despite independence, unlike Japan and Russia, which manage to industrialize.

• Geographical and Cultural Differences: The vast geography and cultural divergences contribute to mismatched political systems and identities across Latin America.

Causes of Independence Movements

• Influences from revolutions in the U.S. and France help inspire Latin American leaders.

• Haitian Revolution: Creates a sense of fear among colonizers that independence might spread.

• Peninsular War: The Napoleonic Wars lead to questions regarding loyalty to Spain, enabling independence movements.

Major Figures in Mexican Independence

• Father Miguel Hidalgo: Initiates a war for independence, rallying indigenous and mestizo populations.

• Benito Juarez: A pivotal figure who later seeks reform, established Mexican Republic.

• Agustín de Iturbide: A royalist who shifts allegiance and becomes emperor. Mexico establishes a republic in 1824.

South America Independence Leaders

• Simón Bolívar: Known as the "George Washington of South America", unifies independence efforts in Northern South America.

• José de San Martín: Leaders in the South, both are military officers with European training.

• Unification Meeting: The meeting between Bolívar and San Martín leads to Bolívar’s leadership of the joint forces despite unknown discussions.

Fragmentation Post-Independence

• Gran Colombia and other regions lack cohesive leadership, leading to instability.

• Argentina develops republican forms of government and enjoys economic growth post-independence.

Brazil’s Unique Path to Independence

• Napoleonic Wars: The royal family of Portugal flees to Brazil, transforming it into the seat of power.

• Nonviolent Transition: Brazil’s independence is relatively peaceful, led by the royal son who stays instead of returning to Portugal.

Societal and Political Challenges

• Diversity and Inequality: The population's diverse racial and social origins complicate governance based on Enlightenment ideals.

• Religious Fragmentation: The decline of the Catholic Church's influence and struggles for abolition of slavery create social unrest.

• Geographical Barriers: Brazil’s geographic vastness and the diverse cultures contribute to regional rivalries and fragmented governance.

Economic Dependencies and Developments

• Dependency on European Markets: Latin America becomes export-driven and economically dependent on Britain.

• Reinforcement of Colonial Economies: Continued export of traditional products like sugar and cotton hinders diversification.

• Political Stagnation: New governments struggle with implementing reforms amidst political turmoil, particularly in Mexico and Brazil.

Regional Differences in Development

• Argentina: Experiences a population growth driven by immigration and agricultural development, with liberal reforms promoting industry.

• Mexico: Faces domestic unrest and political instability influenced by caudillos like Santa Ana.

• Brazil: Reliance on cash crops like coffee and slaves creates political stagnation until the slavery system collapses.

Social Changes and Education

• Gender and Class Issues: Traditional gender roles persist, but education begins to advocate for women's rights.

• Race and Class Dynamics: Despite abolishing the Casta system, racial disparities persist.

• Growing Middle Class: Immigration introduces political ideas and demands for reforms, leading to a complex social structure.

Impact of U.S. Expansion on Latin America

• The Mexican-American War results in significant territorial losses for Mexico and sets a precedent for American expansionist policies.

• Spanish-American War: Leads to U.S. control over territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines.

• Panama Canal: U.S. backing of Panamanian independence emphasizes strategic interests in controlling key trade routes.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy

• Latin America's transition from colonial rule to independence is marked by political fragmentation and economic dependency.

• Political unity remains hindered by historical legacies, geographical vastness, social inequalities, and external influences from powers like the U.S.