Share
Sign In
Why Latim America Wanted Independence From Spain
Creoles - people born on colonies, but of European descent
•
Lack of respect for creoles
◦
By 1700s, latin America had a thriving population of creoles
◦
No natives appointed in government, only native-born spainiards (1786 - 1810)
◦
Irritated creoles, who felt they lacked representation
•
No Free Trade
◦
Spanish empire produced goods, including:
▪
Coffee
▪
Cacao
▪
Textiles
▪
Wine
▪
Minerals
◦
Only allowed to trade with spain & at spanish merchant rates
◦
many started illegally selling to GB & US merchants
◦
Spain eventually loosened restrictions, but too late
•
Other Revolutions
◦
By 1810, mny revolutions have happened near Spanish America.
▪
American Revolution - seen as example of colony overthrowing European rule, replaced with more democratic society
▪
Haitian Revolution - Terrified landowners in South America, because it was a revolution led by slaves.
•
Weakened Spain
◦
1788, Charles IV takes throne - weak leader who spent his time hunting, allowing ministers to run country
◦
Joined France in fighting English
◦
Occupied army + weak leader = Neglected colonies, Ignored people
•
Growing “National” Identity
◦
people being to thing theyre different from Spain
◦
Territorial pride over national (Spain) pride
◦
Preferred “Americans” over “Spainiards”
◦
Continued disrespect of Creoles.