The Independence Movement of American Colonies (1808-1826)

3. Independence of the American Colonies (1808-1826) In the initial decades of the nineteenth century, the independence of most of the American colonies was achieved. This process helped to accelerate the economic and political prestige of the monarchy of Ferdinand VII. Causes of Independence: In the early nineteenth century, unrest in the colonies that had persisted for decades erupted in the form of wars of independence. Several factors contributed to this: 1. The spread of enlightened ideas and the principles of freedom and equality promoted by the French Revolution. 2. The success of the revolt of the British colonies in North America, which culminated in the proclamation of U.S. independence in 1776. 3. The discontent of the local bourgeoisie (white but born in America). The Creoles viewed Spain as a hindrance to the U.S. economy, hampering trade and imposing heavy tax burdens. Moreover, they were marginalized from the political and administrative life of the colonies and faced discriminatory treatment, despite enjoying considerable economic power. The End of the American Empire: The outbreak of the Peninsular War in Spain led to the formation of juntas in the American colonies, which did not recognize the authority of Joseph Bonaparte. However, these juntas soon became agencies of power intended to act independently of Spain. The members of the juntas were Creoles who replaced the Spanish authorities that refused to accept the authority of the Supreme Central Junta.

The major foci of secession originated in Venezuela (Simón Bolívar) and in the Viceroyalty of La Plata (José de San Martín): Paraguay and Argentina were the first independent nations. In 1814, after the end of the war against the French, Spanish troops were able to temporarily restore control over the colonies. However, the insurrection became widespread from 1816: 1. General San Martín led an expedition that crossed the Andes, defeated the Spanish, and achieved the independence of Chile. 2. In the North, Simón Bolívar defeated the Spanish and founded Gran Colombia (1821), which was later divided into Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama. 3. The rebellion led by Iturbide resulted in Mexico's independence in 1821, which was followed by Central America. 4. Antonio José Sucre defeated the Spanish at Ayacucho (1824) and liberated Peru and Bolivia. After the defeat at Ayacucho, Spain lost all its colonies except Cuba, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico. The Problems of the New Republics: The new American republics were born with serious challenges, as the interests of local warlords hindered the creation of a united America, leading to fragmentation into many republics. Additionally, the power of warlords consolidated, and the military's constant intrusion into political life became prevalent. On the other hand, the needs of indigenous people, black communities, and the popular class were neglected. Thus, a post-colonial society emerged with significant social and economic inequalities, which gave rise to conflicts and social tensions.