Revolutions in Latin America

• How were Indians & creoles oppressed under Spanish rule in Latin America?• What ideas influenced Simon Bolivar in his struggle to liberate Latin America?• How did Bolivar & his followers free Latin America from Spanish rule?

• How were Indians & creoles oppressed under Spanish rule in Latin America?– Indians suffered from overwork, malnutrition & disease– Creoles were not allowed to own certain businesses & were excluded from the highest positions in the church & government– It was dangerous for members of either group to speak out against the government

• What ideas influenced Simon Bolivar in his struggle to liberate Latin America?– Bolivar was inspired by Enlightenment ideas focusing on people’s right to freedom & equality– He was also inspired by the American Revolution & French Revolution

• How did Bolivar & his followers free Latin America from Spanish rule?–Bolivar first spread his ideas by holding secret meetings– Then he recruited soldiers & fought a series of battles against the Spanish

Spanish South America

• Simon Bolivar wins independence for Venezuela• Jose de San Martin defeats Spanish forces in Chile• Martin turns army over to Bolivar• Bolivar defeats Spanish in Peru• Colonies win complete freedom from Spain

Simon Bolivar

In 1810, Bolivar went to London to seek support for the revolution in Latin America. At the same time, he studied British institutions of government

·  Napoleon invades Portugal > the royal family flees to Brazil

·  After Napoleon’s defeat, the king of Portugal’s son (Dom Pedro) stays in Brazil

· Dom Pedro sides with Creoles & declares independence from Portugal (1822)

· Unique revolution in Latin America > bloodless

Brazil