Spanish War of Independence: Key Events and Impact

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The Spanish War of Independence: 1808-1813

The Uprising of May 2nd, 1808

On May 2nd, 1808, an uprising occurred in Madrid due to the departure of the royal family from the capital. The Spanish army was left on the sidelines, while some officers rebelled. Murat issued an edict in which he proclaimed his absolute authority and the death penalty for residents. The resignation of Fernando VII was interpreted as an imposition of force. The following day, the uprising extended throughout the country.

Phase 1: Initial Resistance

The balance of forces was very uneven. France was powerful, and Spain, accompanied by Portugal, was at a disadvantage. However, Spanish soldiers fought with strength and courage, utilizing their knowledge of the terrain. They engaged in a guerrilla war. The French tried to quell the uprising in mid-June, but they faced strong resistance, notably in Zaragoza under General Palafox. French troops suffered a significant defeat at the Battle of Bailén. On July 20th, José Bonaparte left Madrid, and on the 28th, the French lifted the siege of Zaragoza. Napoleon decided to intervene personally and moved to Madrid, where on December 4th, Madrid surrendered. Napoleon, aiming to maintain morale, began giving assurances to the residents and initiated social reforms under the French government. Zaragoza surrendered a few days later.

Phase 2: War of Attrition

In 1809, the French managed to overcome resistance and advance south. However, the Spanish government had organized a war effort through the Central Junta, and the will to resist remained strong. A war of attrition began, characterized by guerrilla warfare. Guerrilla units, formed in 1808 as armed civilian groups, aimed to hold off the French. The importance of these units lay in their unique tactics.

Phase 3: Turning Point and Victory

From 1811, the war changed direction. After the defeat at Torres Vedras, the French abandoned Portugal. Wellington moved south and reconquered Badajoz. Napoleon withdrew more men to ensure the defense of France. On June 21st, 1813, the Battle of Vitoria resulted in a decisive defeat for France, forcing Joseph I to cross the border. By December 11th, the French were under siege in their own territory. Napoleon signed the Treaty of Valençay, which restored the crown to Ferdinand VII.

Consequences of the War

The war resulted in:

  • A huge demographic collapse
  • Property damage
  • Economic damage
  • International repercussions
  • The triggering of the Spanish American independence process

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