Simon BolivarSimon Bolivar

single most important leader / most visible leader in single most important leader / most visible leader in achieving independence for Latin America??achieving independence for Latin America??

was a General, and a Writer, and a Political leader– was a General, and a Writer, and a Political leader– unusual - but is best remembered for his daring unusual - but is best remembered for his daring exploits as a General / Commanderexploits as a General / Commander

is most often compared to Washington, as a general is most often compared to Washington, as a general (and as a Political leader after the Revolutions) – (and as a Political leader after the Revolutions) – called himself “the George Washington of Latin called himself “the George Washington of Latin America”: never really compared with Jefferson, as a America”: never really compared with Jefferson, as a writer, though it’s possible to do so?writer, though it’s possible to do so?

born into a wealthy Creole family in Caracas, capital born into a wealthy Creole family in Caracas, capital of Venezuela (family owned land, mines, slaves)of Venezuela (family owned land, mines, slaves)

orphaned at age 9, sent to Spain to complete his orphaned at age 9, sent to Spain to complete his educationeducation

in Europe, he was introduced, exposed to / influenced by in Europe, he was introduced, exposed to / influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment, and the ideas of the the ideas of the Enlightenment, and the ideas of the American and French Revolutions American and French Revolutions

after returning to Venezuela in 1805 he became bitter after returning to Venezuela in 1805 he became bitter about the injustice of the discrimination against the about the injustice of the discrimination against the Creole by the Spanish Govt. and Peninsulares - Creole by the Spanish Govt. and Peninsulares - discrimination in govt. jobs, church positions, economic discrimination in govt. jobs, church positions, economic opportunities opportunities

vowed to free his homeland from Spanish rule: became vowed to free his homeland from Spanish rule: became involved in Creole conspiratorial activity directed at the involved in Creole conspiratorial activity directed at the overthrow of the Spanish regime in Venezuelaoverthrow of the Spanish regime in Venezuela

in 1810, after Spain was in 1810, after Spain was invaded by France, Spanish invaded by France, Spanish King Ferdinand was forced to King Ferdinand was forced to abdicate – Napoleon placed abdicate – Napoleon placed his brother Joseph on the his brother Joseph on the thronethrone

the Creole dominated the Creole dominated Congress in Caracas assumed Congress in Caracas assumed control over Venezuelan control over Venezuelan affairs and renounced affairs and renounced Spanish (which they claimed Spanish (which they claimed was French) authority …. was French) authority …. Declared their loyalty to Declared their loyalty to FerdinandFerdinand

used or hid behindused or hid behind the Mask of the Mask of FerdinandFerdinand – loyalty to Ferdinand was – loyalty to Ferdinand was their reason for not recognizing their reason for not recognizing Spanish authority – justified their Spanish authority – justified their actions in this wayactions in this way

took advantage of the power vacuum, took advantage of the power vacuum, to free themselves from Spanish and to free themselves from Spanish and Peninsular control…but wanted Peninsular control…but wanted Home Rule, not full independenceHome Rule, not full independence

local Spaniards, Peninsulares rejected local Spaniards, Peninsulares rejected the “pretence” of (were not fooled the “pretence” of (were not fooled by) assurances of loyalty to by) assurances of loyalty to Ferdinand and opposed the Creole Ferdinand and opposed the Creole take-overtake-over

Joseph Bonaparte, King of Spain

Bolivar urged the Caracas Congress (junta) to Bolivar urged the Caracas Congress (junta) to immediately declare “full, total, permanent immediately declare “full, total, permanent independence”: he himself led a volunteer army independence”: he himself led a volunteer army against loyalists and Spanish troops. against loyalists and Spanish troops.

but the Congress felt that the time was not yet right – but the Congress felt that the time was not yet right – Home Rule within the Empire for now - and was Home Rule within the Empire for now - and was concerned about unleashing the energies of the lower concerned about unleashing the energies of the lower classes (Haiti example). “classes (Haiti example). “The Creole elite, itself part of The Creole elite, itself part of an exploitative white minority, feared the oppressed an exploitative white minority, feared the oppressed Indians, blacks, and half castes.” (Keen, Haynes)…Indians, blacks, and half castes.” (Keen, Haynes)…relate to Beard, Schlesinger and American Rev relate to Beard, Schlesinger and American Rev

the Junta sent Bolivar to solicit aid from Britain the Junta sent Bolivar to solicit aid from Britain (maybe to get him out of the way) (maybe to get him out of the way)

had no success with the British had no success with the British govt. , but did convince the govt. , but did convince the veteran Venezuelan veteran Venezuelan revolutionary in exile there, revolutionary in exile there, Francisco de Miranda, to return Francisco de Miranda, to return to Venezuela with him and take to Venezuela with him and take command of the Patriot / Creole command of the Patriot / Creole armyarmy

eventually, in 1811, persuaded eventually, in 1811, persuaded by de Miranda and Bolivar, the by de Miranda and Bolivar, the Creole Congress declared full Creole Congress declared full independence from Spain and independence from Spain and established the First established the First Venezuelan RepublicVenezuelan Republic

Francisco de Miranda

the new Constitution of the First Republic is considered the new Constitution of the First Republic is considered to be generally Conservative (with some Liberal to be generally Conservative (with some Liberal elements): it included:elements): it included:

Ended Indian slavery (but not African slavery)Ended Indian slavery (but not African slavery) Ended Indian tributeEnded Indian tribute Ended Fueros (special privileges of Peninsulares) - Removed Ended Fueros (special privileges of Peninsulares) - Removed

Peninsulare domination of Church and StatePeninsulare domination of Church and State Catholicism to be the official religionCatholicism to be the official religion Limited rights of full citizenship to property owners (but Limited rights of full citizenship to property owners (but

excluded Mulatto property owners)excluded Mulatto property owners) Removed export tariffs: and non Spanish imports were no longer Removed export tariffs: and non Spanish imports were no longer

to be punitively taxedto be punitively taxed

Otherwise, there were to be no other changes (compare Otherwise, there were to be no other changes (compare with American Revolution) in a society deeply divided with American Revolution) in a society deeply divided into rigid classes / social groups: into rigid classes / social groups: Peninsulares / Creoles Peninsulares / Creoles (now equal), Mestizos, Indians, Blacks/Slaves, Mulattos, (now equal), Mestizos, Indians, Blacks/Slaves, Mulattos, and Zambosand Zambos

Because of the over-riding Conservatism, the Creole Because of the over-riding Conservatism, the Creole Revolution of 1811, and the First Republic, did not have Revolution of 1811, and the First Republic, did not have popular supportpopular support

The masses saw it as one “white” elite replacing another, The masses saw it as one “white” elite replacing another, with no impact on themwith no impact on them..

Compare, contrast with American Revolution…Compare, contrast with American Revolution…how deep were social / economic divisions…how deep were social / economic divisions…consensus??? Much more division in Latin Am, consensus??? Much more division in Latin Am, much more consensus in North Am?much more consensus in North Am?

What kind of Revolution was it?What kind of Revolution was it?

PoliticalPolitical at first about control: the Creoles seized control over at first about control: the Creoles seized control over

Venezuelan affairs, at expense of the Peninsulares / Venezuelan affairs, at expense of the Peninsulares / Spanish born, and Spanish govt. Conservative – few Spanish born, and Spanish govt. Conservative – few other political changes other political changes

then independence from Spain (as in US): radicalthen independence from Spain (as in US): radical

Social, and EconomicSocial, and Economic for the Creole class only– for the Creole class only– opportunities would no longer be restricted: end to opportunities would no longer be restricted: end to Peninsulares domination of Economic opportunities and Peninsulares domination of Economic opportunities and of higher Social statusof higher Social status

Otherwise Conservative - no extension of democracy or Otherwise Conservative - no extension of democracy or of Economic and Social opportunities to lower groups; of Economic and Social opportunities to lower groups; no re-distribution of land: slaves not freed…no re-distribution of land: slaves not freed…

However, in 1812, the Revolution / First However, in 1812, the Revolution / First Republic collapsed – why?Republic collapsed – why?

earthquake of 1812 severely affected Patriot earthquake of 1812 severely affected Patriot areas of Caracas and country…destabilizing areas of Caracas and country…destabilizing effect: Royalist territories were not affectedeffect: Royalist territories were not affected

series of military defeats by Spanish Army and series of military defeats by Spanish Army and Peninsulares – successful Counter-RevolutionPeninsulares – successful Counter-Revolution

split within Creole ranks: esp. tension / split within Creole ranks: esp. tension / disagreements between Bolivar and Mirandadisagreements between Bolivar and Miranda

Bolivar and MirandaBolivar and Miranda Bolivar complained that Miranda was too cautious, Bolivar complained that Miranda was too cautious,

conservative and indecisive conservative and indecisive

He felt slighted, demoted, not consulted…he frequently He felt slighted, demoted, not consulted…he frequently wrote to Miranda, complaining about how he was wrote to Miranda, complaining about how he was treatedtreated

according to historian according to historian Robert HarveyRobert Harvey, (, (The LiberatorsThe Liberators) ) his letters to Miranda display “his letters to Miranda display “his manic and brittle his manic and brittle personalitypersonality” and they show that “” and they show that “insanity never insanity never seemed far beneath the surface in spite of his seemed far beneath the surface in spite of his undoubted courage and abilityundoubted courage and ability.”.”

Harvey describes him as “Harvey describes him as “whiningwhining” and “” and “hystericalhysterical”, ”, and a “and a “spoilt, highly-strung, egocentric show-off, spoilt, highly-strung, egocentric show-off, much more concerned with his own reputation than much more concerned with his own reputation than the setback to his causethe setback to his cause.” .”

Harvey quotes De Madariaga, a contemporary Creole, a Harvey quotes De Madariaga, a contemporary Creole, a politician / historian, who describes Bolivar as politician / historian, who describes Bolivar as ““egotistical and ambitious, always on the verge of egotistical and ambitious, always on the verge of mental collapse, of insanitymental collapse, of insanity”.”.

Also, based on his letters to Miranda, Harvey goes on to Also, based on his letters to Miranda, Harvey goes on to describes Bolivar as “describes Bolivar as “vain, assertive, ridiculousvain, assertive, ridiculous.”.”

Personality contrast here with WashingtonPersonality contrast here with Washington (chosen (chosen because he was level headed, statesmanlike, stable, because he was level headed, statesmanlike, stable, reasonable etc..) and Jefferson reasonable etc..) and Jefferson

As the Creole cause disintegrated in the face of a As the Creole cause disintegrated in the face of a Peninsular counter-revolution and Spanish pressure, Peninsular counter-revolution and Spanish pressure, Miranda negotiated with the Spanish apparently for his Miranda negotiated with the Spanish apparently for his own safety, may also have been about to take Creole own safety, may also have been about to take Creole treasury with him. treasury with him.

Bolivar found this out, captured him, accused him of Bolivar found this out, captured him, accused him of dishonor, and turned him over to the Spanish authorities. dishonor, and turned him over to the Spanish authorities. (Miranda died in a Spanish prison 4 yrs later from ill-(Miranda died in a Spanish prison 4 yrs later from ill-treatment)….Bolivar was his “executioner”treatment)….Bolivar was his “executioner”

Before handing him over, Bolivar had negotiated a deal Before handing him over, Bolivar had negotiated a deal with the Spanish - safe conduct from Venezuela, with the Spanish - safe conduct from Venezuela, allowed to go into exile in New Granada / Columbia allowed to go into exile in New Granada / Columbia (got a deal like the one Miranda was hoping for). (got a deal like the one Miranda was hoping for).

Harvey says that “Harvey says that “Bolivar saved his own skinBolivar saved his own skin” – ” – Bolivar felt Miranda was the disloyal traitor but Harvey Bolivar felt Miranda was the disloyal traitor but Harvey says that Bolivar’s “says that Bolivar’s “actions in handing over Miranda actions in handing over Miranda to the enemy in return for his safety, are perhaps to the enemy in return for his safety, are perhaps even more treacherouseven more treacherous” ”

Contrast with Washington….noble, dignified…hard to Contrast with Washington….noble, dignified…hard to see Washington ever handing someone over to the see Washington ever handing someone over to the enemy…was always an advocate for his menenemy…was always an advocate for his men

Harvey says that “Harvey says that “throughout Bolivar’s career he throughout Bolivar’s career he demonstrated on occasion a streak of psychopathic demonstrated on occasion a streak of psychopathic ruthlessness in removing his rivalsruthlessness in removing his rivals.” .”

Later, in his dealings with San Martin at the meeting at Later, in his dealings with San Martin at the meeting at Guayaquil, we will see the same ruthless behaviorGuayaquil, we will see the same ruthless behavior

A History of Latin AmericanA History of Latin American: : Keen and HaynesKeen and Haynes

Chapter 5 (p.109-115) and Chapter 8 (p.162-Chapter 5 (p.109-115) and Chapter 8 (p.162-168): Questions 1-15168): Questions 1-15

Arrived in New Granada / Colombia, capital Cartagena, Arrived in New Granada / Colombia, capital Cartagena, offered to help out there with their Creole struggle for offered to help out there with their Creole struggle for independenceindependence

Creoles there had also declared independence (“Mask of Creoles there had also declared independence (“Mask of Ferdinand”) but were also under strong pressure from the Ferdinand”) but were also under strong pressure from the Counter Revolution of Peninsulares and Spanish. Counter Revolution of Peninsulares and Spanish.

Creole leadership / cause was splitting there too, as in Creole leadership / cause was splitting there too, as in Venezuela. Venezuela.

Encouraged them to unite – to not make the same mistake Encouraged them to unite – to not make the same mistake as Venezuelan Creoles had done - wrote a pamphlet to as Venezuelan Creoles had done - wrote a pamphlet to encourage them to do soencourage them to do so

Manifesto to the Citizens of New GranadaManifesto to the Citizens of New Granada, , often just called the often just called the CartagenaCartagena Manifesto Manifesto (p.100 (p.100 Handout)Handout), in which he:, in which he:

called for unity of all Creoles in Columbiacalled for unity of all Creoles in Columbia discouraged tolerance of dissent, liberal ideas, too much discouraged tolerance of dissent, liberal ideas, too much

democracy…democracy… discouraged radical political or social reform after the discouraged radical political or social reform after the

break with Spain break with Spain condemned the Federalist system as impractical, condemned the Federalist system as impractical,

especially under war conditions; advocated authoritarian especially under war conditions; advocated authoritarian / centralized government/ centralized government

urged them to help with the liberation of Venezuela – urged them to help with the liberation of Venezuela – essential for Colombian security – co-operation between essential for Colombian security – co-operation between the two nationsthe two nations

Revolution for him at this stage was Political, Revolution for him at this stage was Political, political Conservativepolitical Conservative

Be able to compare / contrast his writings with Be able to compare / contrast his writings with Jefferson….his ability to analyze, write, his political Jefferson….his ability to analyze, write, his political views…persuasive?…his conservative views vs views…persuasive?…his conservative views vs Jefferson’s liberal views….no John Locke in Jefferson’s liberal views….no John Locke in Bolivar’s writings Bolivar’s writings

Yet was a writer, unlike Washington….contrastYet was a writer, unlike Washington….contrast

Was given command of a small detachment of Was given command of a small detachment of Colombian troops to drive Spanish troops from the Colombian troops to drive Spanish troops from the Magdalena River area Magdalena River area

Got them in shape and imposed discipline. Used Got them in shape and imposed discipline. Used guerilla warfare tactics; motivated troops by promotion guerilla warfare tactics; motivated troops by promotion based on merit without regard to social background or based on merit without regard to social background or color.color.

Won a great victory at Won a great victory at CucutaCucuta over superior Spanish over superior Spanish forcesforces

HarveyHarvey describes the victory at Cucuta as Bolivar’s “ describes the victory at Cucuta as Bolivar’s “first first major and decisive victorymajor and decisive victory,” “,” “the first of a series of near-the first of a series of near-superhuman feats of generalship and leadership carried superhuman feats of generalship and leadership carried out over some of the most geographically, varied, and out over some of the most geographically, varied, and savage terrain on earthsavage terrain on earth.” (scaled high peaks / element of .” (scaled high peaks / element of surprise / to descend on Spanish)surprise / to descend on Spanish)

Compare / contrast with Washington…no such victoriesCompare / contrast with Washington…no such victories

As a result of his victory he was promoted to the rank of As a result of his victory he was promoted to the rank of general in the Colombian army and given approval for his general in the Colombian army and given approval for his plan for Colombian support for the liberation of plan for Colombian support for the liberation of Venezuela…given a small army to head back to VenezuelaVenezuela…given a small army to head back to Venezuela

In a forced march over three months, he set off with 500 In a forced march over three months, he set off with 500 men through Colombia’s / Venezuela’s Andean region men through Colombia’s / Venezuela’s Andean region towards Caracas. towards Caracas.

His journey to Venezuela is famous for two features: His journey to Venezuela is famous for two features:

1. 1. The Great Campaign;The Great Campaign; Over mountains, high peaks, difficult terrain, over long Over mountains, high peaks, difficult terrain, over long

distance. distance.

Harvey writes it was one of “Harvey writes it was one of “the most brilliantly the most brilliantly executed campaigns in military history. In just three executed campaigns in military history. In just three months, a man barely 30, with little previous months, a man barely 30, with little previous experience of battle and none at all of generalship had experience of battle and none at all of generalship had staged a punishing push up river into enemy territory, staged a punishing push up river into enemy territory, built up a force of more than 2,000 men virtually from built up a force of more than 2,000 men virtually from scratch andscratch and…(over) …(over)

covering 1,200 kilometers, taken his army across a covering 1,200 kilometers, taken his army across a supposedly impassable mountain barrier, won six supposedly impassable mountain barrier, won six battles, and routed five separate armies, to become battles, and routed five separate armies, to become the liberator of his homelandthe liberator of his homeland.” .”

Again compare / contrast with Washington – no such Again compare / contrast with Washington – no such great campaigns / victoriesgreat campaigns / victories

2. 2. War to the DeathWar to the Death:: He responded to the Spanish General Monteverde’s He responded to the Spanish General Monteverde’s

campaign of terror against Patriot / Creole soldiers and campaign of terror against Patriot / Creole soldiers and civilians with one of his owncivilians with one of his own

On his march to Caracas he declared, through a Manifesto, On his march to Caracas he declared, through a Manifesto, a counter-terror, a “a counter-terror, a “war to the deathwar to the death” against all Spaniards ” against all Spaniards and their supporters, including civiliansand their supporters, including civilians

He did, however, offer an amnesty to those who had He did, however, offer an amnesty to those who had supported the Spanish, if they switched sides.supported the Spanish, if they switched sides.

contrast with Washington – no such vengeance against contrast with Washington – no such vengeance against Loyalist groups, or POW’sLoyalist groups, or POW’s

Read Harvey’s comments on this Read Harvey’s comments on this War to the DeathWar to the Death, pages , pages 110-113110-113

After the Spanish conceded and withdrew, he entered After the Spanish conceded and withdrew, he entered Caracas in triumph and was give the title Caracas in triumph and was give the title LiberatorLiberator by the by the newly formed Creole City Councilnewly formed Creole City Council

He relished in the Theatricality, the pomp and ceremony of He relished in the Theatricality, the pomp and ceremony of the celebrations (contrast with the modesty of Washington)the celebrations (contrast with the modesty of Washington)

Read Harvey p.116-117Read Harvey p.116-117

Yet, Harvey does concede that the armistice he issued after Yet, Harvey does concede that the armistice he issued after his victories “his victories “displayed a magnanimity at odds with his displayed a magnanimity at odds with his “war to the death” proclamation. No reprisals were “war to the death” proclamation. No reprisals were taken, now that the war was over, and property rights taken, now that the war was over, and property rights were to be respectedwere to be respected..” (p.117)..” (p.117)

Soon afterwards the grateful Congress of the restored Soon afterwards the grateful Congress of the restored Creole Republic – Second Republic - voted to grant him Creole Republic – Second Republic - voted to grant him dictatorial powers, which he accepted – though never dictatorial powers, which he accepted – though never practiced… reluctant to take responsibility for practiced… reluctant to take responsibility for governing…restless (compare / contrast with governing…restless (compare / contrast with Washington – Newburgh, became President later, two Washington – Newburgh, became President later, two terms)terms)

But this Second Republic was undermined by But this Second Republic was undermined by

1. Events in Europe1. Events in Europe The fall of Napoleon - Ferdinand returned to the throne The fall of Napoleon - Ferdinand returned to the throne

- Spanish troops no longer had to fight the French - - Spanish troops no longer had to fight the French - were sent to Latin America to put down Creole were sent to Latin America to put down Creole rebellions there….. “mask of Ferdinand exposed”rebellions there….. “mask of Ferdinand exposed”

2. Revolt by the Masses2. Revolt by the Masses The Second Republic, like the first, did not have the The Second Republic, like the first, did not have the

support of the masses – in fact it alienated large sections support of the masses – in fact it alienated large sections of the lower classes (political / conservative)of the lower classes (political / conservative)

African slavery was not abolished - there were many African slavery was not abolished - there were many slave revolts (rising expectations); Creole forces had to slave revolts (rising expectations); Creole forces had to be diverted from fighting the Spanish to put down these be diverted from fighting the Spanish to put down these slave revolts.slave revolts.

Another unhappy group were the cowboys or Ilaneros of Another unhappy group were the cowboys or Ilaneros of the Plains (poor, black, Indian, Mestizo) who made a the Plains (poor, black, Indian, Mestizo) who made a living from rounding up stray cattle - were furious about living from rounding up stray cattle - were furious about a new law preventing them from doing thisa new law preventing them from doing this

Also upset with another law requiring them to carry identity Also upset with another law requiring them to carry identity cards and to be employed by a ranch/rancher – felt they cards and to be employed by a ranch/rancher – felt they were being reduced to the status of the laboring servile were being reduced to the status of the laboring servile class, that their customary rights and freedoms were being class, that their customary rights and freedoms were being eroded eroded

Led by Boves, an 8,000 strong army of these “cowboys” / Led by Boves, an 8,000 strong army of these “cowboys” / Llaneros – dubbed Llaneros – dubbed The LegionThe Legion or the or the Horsemen from HellHorsemen from Hell – launched and attack on Caracas to overthrow the Second – launched and attack on Caracas to overthrow the Second Creole RepublicCreole Republic

The Llaneros brutally massacred up to 10,000 civilians in The Llaneros brutally massacred up to 10,000 civilians in the capital and forced the Congress to fleethe capital and forced the Congress to flee

Bolivar was forced to abandon the city and retreat back Bolivar was forced to abandon the city and retreat back towards Colombia for a second time - Venezuela’s Second towards Colombia for a second time - Venezuela’s Second Republic endedRepublic ended

Collapse of Second Republic shows the Social / Economic Collapse of Second Republic shows the Social / Economic divisions within Latin America: lack of Unity, Consensus divisions within Latin America: lack of Unity, Consensus – unlike the American Revolution which succeeded during – unlike the American Revolution which succeeded during the first Rev War (compare, contrast causes / nature)the first Rev War (compare, contrast causes / nature)

As the Republic was about to collapse and Caracas about As the Republic was about to collapse and Caracas about to fall, Bolivar, according to Harvey, became vicious and to fall, Bolivar, according to Harvey, became vicious and vindictive…. “turned nasty..” vindictive…. “turned nasty..” (p.124)(p.124) Read ExtractRead Extract

In exile in Cartagena again - but the Republic in New In exile in Cartagena again - but the Republic in New Granada was also on the verge of collapsing – realizing Granada was also on the verge of collapsing – realizing the situation was hopeless, he left for British controlled the situation was hopeless, he left for British controlled Jamaica.Jamaica.

Meanwhile the Spanish recaptured Venezuela and then Meanwhile the Spanish recaptured Venezuela and then Colombia: re-established Spanish/Peninsulare controlColombia: re-established Spanish/Peninsulare control

From Jamaica, Bolivar wrote his From Jamaica, Bolivar wrote his Letter From JamaicaLetter From Jamaica ((Handout p.138Handout p.138): expresses his political thoughts / insights:): expresses his political thoughts / insights:

He still believed the Revolutions could succeedHe still believed the Revolutions could succeed He was surprised and disappointed by the lack of European He was surprised and disappointed by the lack of European

supportsupport Forecast that 15 Republics would emerge in the Spanish Forecast that 15 Republics would emerge in the Spanish

colonies colonies Hoped Venezuela and New Granada would uniteHoped Venezuela and New Granada would unite There should not be any monarchies: these were despotic There should not be any monarchies: these were despotic

and self aggrandizingand self aggrandizing Predictions - some Democracies would emerge (Chile): Predictions - some Democracies would emerge (Chile):

some dictatorships would emerge (Peru) because of the lack some dictatorships would emerge (Peru) because of the lack of a tradition of representative govt. of a tradition of representative govt.

Just as important as this Just as important as this Letter from JamaicaLetter from Jamaica, is another , is another letter, to a Jamaican newspaperletter, to a Jamaican newspaper, in which he expressed , in which he expressed a significant change in his political views (pg.140)a significant change in his political views (pg.140)

He now realized that for the Venezuelan Revolution He now realized that for the Venezuelan Revolution to succeed, he would have to include the lower classes to succeed, he would have to include the lower classes and incorporate their desires with those of the Creole and incorporate their desires with those of the Creole eliteelite……a major turning point ……a major turning point

He would especially have to win over Boves and his He would especially have to win over Boves and his cowboys who had, since the collapse of the Second cowboys who had, since the collapse of the Second Republic, also been alienated by the new Spanish Republic, also been alienated by the new Spanish Governor Morillo. Governor Morillo. Read p. 140-141Read p. 140-141

From Jamaica he went to From Jamaica he went to HaitiHaiti to look for support from to look for support from its mulatto President Petion; offered Bolivar support in its mulatto President Petion; offered Bolivar support in return for a promise to free all African slaves in return for a promise to free all African slaves in Venezuela if he was successful in regaining control there Venezuela if he was successful in regaining control there

Bolivar agreedBolivar agreed – – His goal was for the next Revolution / His goal was for the next Revolution / Republic to be more liberal/ radical – slaves would be Republic to be more liberal/ radical – slaves would be freed; it would include more Social and Economic freed; it would include more Social and Economic change than before to satisfy the masses / inc. the change than before to satisfy the masses / inc. the LlanerosLlaneros

Tried to land on West Coast of Venezuela – failed – Tried to land on West Coast of Venezuela – failed – Spanish too strong there – back to West Indies – tried Spanish too strong there – back to West Indies – tried East Coast next time – landed near the Orinoco River East Coast next time – landed near the Orinoco River Valley, then headed for Valley, then headed for AngosturaAngostura and established a and established a base there.. base there..

Then sent messages of support to the cowboys / Then sent messages of support to the cowboys / Llaneros , under new leader Paez, who agreed to join Llaneros , under new leader Paez, who agreed to join forces with himforces with him

were also joined by former British soldiers discharged were also joined by former British soldiers discharged after end of Napoleonic wars (received some support after end of Napoleonic wars (received some support from British merchants and Govt. – hoped to open up from British merchants and Govt. – hoped to open up trade)trade)

Bolivar’s combined forces defeated the Spanish, and he Bolivar’s combined forces defeated the Spanish, and he assembled a Congress at Angostura to establish the assembled a Congress at Angostura to establish the Third Venezuelan RepublicThird Venezuelan Republic, which again gave him , which again gave him dictatorial powersdictatorial powers

Bolivar presented a Constitution to this Congress– urged Bolivar presented a Constitution to this Congress– urged the abolition of slavery (liberated his own slaves) and the the abolition of slavery (liberated his own slaves) and the distribution of land to revolutionary soldiers, freedom of distribution of land to revolutionary soldiers, freedom of religion, universal male suffrage (men from any social religion, universal male suffrage (men from any social group but still with some property and income group but still with some property and income qualification); qualification); shows how far his views had evolved shows how far his views had evolved towards the center / lefttowards the center / left

It also had some nondemocratic features / proposals – a It also had some nondemocratic features / proposals – a president with virtually royal powers elected for life, a president with virtually royal powers elected for life, a hereditary senate. hereditary senate.

Congress elected him president of the new Republic and Congress elected him president of the new Republic and adopted a conservative Constitution embodying very few adopted a conservative Constitution embodying very few of his suggestions.of his suggestions.

Restless…..Bolivar devised a plan to liberate both Restless…..Bolivar devised a plan to liberate both Venezuela and Colombia: after the final defeat of the Venezuela and Colombia: after the final defeat of the Spanish he would leave Paez behind in Venezuela to Spanish he would leave Paez behind in Venezuela to finish off the job and he himself would head for Colombiafinish off the job and he himself would head for Colombia

He put together an army of 3,500 men and set off for He put together an army of 3,500 men and set off for Colombia along the most unexpected and most difficult Colombia along the most unexpected and most difficult route, to gain the element of surpriseroute, to gain the element of surprise

Harvey says that he took his men “Harvey says that he took his men “along the winding along the winding Orinoco and Arauco rivers, then across the plains, Orinoco and Arauco rivers, then across the plains, through floods and mud, and then up the towering through floods and mud, and then up the towering Colombian Andes – one of the most epic marches in Colombian Andes – one of the most epic marches in history – over peaks of up to 13,000 feet, through rain, history – over peaks of up to 13,000 feet, through rain, snow…snow…

he did not tell the men where they were going, did he did not tell the men where they were going, did not make adequate preparation or training…to his not make adequate preparation or training…to his credit he wanted to liberate New Granada when he credit he wanted to liberate New Granada when he could have relaxed in Venezuela… but it was an ill could have relaxed in Venezuela… but it was an ill planned, ill conceived campaign. He had no planned, ill conceived campaign. He had no concern for the safety or welfare of his men”. concern for the safety or welfare of his men”.

Contrast with Washington….and San MartinContrast with Washington….and San Martin

During the march “During the march “he himself appeared quite mad; he he himself appeared quite mad; he wore the helmet of a Russian dragoon, a blue tunic wore the helmet of a Russian dragoon, a blue tunic with gold buttons and red epaulettes and on his with gold buttons and red epaulettes and on his bamboo lance carried a banner with a skull and bamboo lance carried a banner with a skull and crossbones, inscribed in blood red, the slogan crossbones, inscribed in blood red, the slogan “Liberty or Death.”“Liberty or Death.” (Harvey) (Harvey)

After the 750 mile, four months journey, he arrived with After the 750 mile, four months journey, he arrived with only men 1,200 left of the 3,500. Harvey says that the only men 1,200 left of the 3,500. Harvey says that the loss of life “loss of life “was the fault of a madman who cared was the fault of a madman who cared nothing about the lives of his men.”nothing about the lives of his men.”

Joining forces with the Colombian Patriots, Bolivar Joining forces with the Colombian Patriots, Bolivar helped defeat the Spanish at the Battle of Boyaca and helped defeat the Spanish at the Battle of Boyaca and entered Bogota to a great receptionentered Bogota to a great reception

Then returned to Venezuela where he and Paez finished Then returned to Venezuela where he and Paez finished off the Spanish resistance (weakened by a mutiny by off the Spanish resistance (weakened by a mutiny by Spanish troops against Ferdinand in Spain) in 1821. Spanish troops against Ferdinand in Spain) in 1821.

Ferdinand also lost the support of many Peninsulares in Ferdinand also lost the support of many Peninsulares in Latin America when he agree to adopt a liberal Latin America when he agree to adopt a liberal Constitution which would end their special positions – Constitution which would end their special positions – felt they may as well now support the Venezuelan felt they may as well now support the Venezuelan RevolutionRevolution

Venezuela was finally free and independent after Venezuela was finally free and independent after several failed attempts, as was New Granada. several failed attempts, as was New Granada.

Bolivar decided to try to unite both into the new nation Bolivar decided to try to unite both into the new nation of Gran Colombia. of Gran Colombia.

Called delegates together to write a new Constitution Called delegates together to write a new Constitution for the new Federationfor the new Federation

He didn’t agree with the end product but did not try to He didn’t agree with the end product but did not try to suppress it or get involved in the new government. suppress it or get involved in the new government.

Again, he had little interest in practicing Politics. He Again, he had little interest in practicing Politics. He saw himself as a general, a fighter, little interest in his saw himself as a general, a fighter, little interest in his role as dictator or president of Venezuela, Gran role as dictator or president of Venezuela, Gran ColombiaColombia

He was determined to drive the Spanish from the rest He was determined to drive the Spanish from the rest of Latin America – Ecuador, Peru, Panama.of Latin America – Ecuador, Peru, Panama.

In Ecuador, he met with San Martin whose efforts to In Ecuador, he met with San Martin whose efforts to liberate Peru were slowed by Spanish resistance and liberate Peru were slowed by Spanish resistance and divisions among the Creole Patriotsdivisions among the Creole Patriots

Met on July 26 and 27, 1822 at Guayaquil. Met on July 26 and 27, 1822 at Guayaquil.

They discussed They discussed ownership of the port ownership of the port city of Guayaquil: San city of Guayaquil: San Martin claimed it for Martin claimed it for Peru, Bolivar for the Peru, Bolivar for the new Gran Colombia; new Gran Colombia;

San Martin had to San Martin had to concede, presented concede, presented with a “fait accompli” with a “fait accompli” – Bolivar had already – Bolivar had already seized and controlled itseized and controlled it

More importantly, they discussed the political future of More importantly, they discussed the political future of all of Spanish America. San Martin may have favored all of Spanish America. San Martin may have favored monarchy as the temporary solution to the emergent monarchy as the temporary solution to the emergent chaos of the new states: Bolivar preferred a Republican, chaos of the new states: Bolivar preferred a Republican, though one controlled by an Oligarchythough one controlled by an Oligarchy

The critical question was how would they defeat the The critical question was how would they defeat the remaining Spanish forces in Peru and elsewhere and remaining Spanish forces in Peru and elsewhere and conclude the liberation of the continentconclude the liberation of the continent

There is great mystery about the meeting: there is little There is great mystery about the meeting: there is little documentary evidence about what happened: but soon documentary evidence about what happened: but soon after the meeting San Martin retired from public life, after the meeting San Martin retired from public life, and went in exile in Europeand went in exile in Europe

Read Keen and Haynes p. 172 (Handout)Read Keen and Haynes p. 172 (Handout)

Argentine historians say that Bolivar refused to Argentine historians say that Bolivar refused to combine his forces with San Martin’s, that he would not combine his forces with San Martin’s, that he would not accept San Martin’s leadership or joint leadership, that accept San Martin’s leadership or joint leadership, that he wanted to a single command – by himself; wanted he wanted to a single command – by himself; wanted all the glory for himself: San Martin realized that it all the glory for himself: San Martin realized that it would take their combined forces to defeat the Spanish, would take their combined forces to defeat the Spanish, so rather than cause division he stepped down: he so rather than cause division he stepped down: he would not jeopardize the cause: he put the cause before would not jeopardize the cause: he put the cause before personal glory. personal glory.

Venezuelan historians say all San Martin wanted was to Venezuelan historians say all San Martin wanted was to get Guayaquil for Peru and retired for personal reasons get Guayaquil for Peru and retired for personal reasons which had nothing to do with the conference. which had nothing to do with the conference.

Keen is somewhat neutral; he argues that they both just Keen is somewhat neutral; he argues that they both just realistically appraised the situation: only Bolivar had realistically appraised the situation: only Bolivar had the resources to rid Latin America of the Spanish. the resources to rid Latin America of the Spanish. Bolivar decided to assume full responsibility for the Bolivar decided to assume full responsibility for the war, San Martin withdrew so as not to get in the way / war, San Martin withdrew so as not to get in the way / hinder the performance of this task.hinder the performance of this task.

Harvey does not agree with this view. Harvey does not agree with this view. See pages 200-See pages 200-207207

Harvey also shows the difference between the two in Harvey also shows the difference between the two in regard to attention and theatricality displayed at regard to attention and theatricality displayed at Guayaquil: Bolivar was egotistical, loved the attention Guayaquil: Bolivar was egotistical, loved the attention of the people –San Martin was embarrassed and not a of the people –San Martin was embarrassed and not a willing participant in the festivitieswilling participant in the festivities….p. 202….p. 202

After San Martin left the situation in Peru deteriorated – After San Martin left the situation in Peru deteriorated – Spanish stepped up their assaults – Peruvian Creoles Spanish stepped up their assaults – Peruvian Creoles called on Bolivar in May 1823 to help their cause – he at called on Bolivar in May 1823 to help their cause – he at first sent only a small army under Sucre – he was in no first sent only a small army under Sucre – he was in no hurry himself to get there: he wanted to send a message hurry himself to get there: he wanted to send a message to Peru’s leaders about how much they needed him “and to Peru’s leaders about how much they needed him “and bring them to their knees”. (Harvey)bring them to their knees”. (Harvey)

Bolivar arrived in Sept 1823 and eventually defeated the Bolivar arrived in Sept 1823 and eventually defeated the

Spanish and put an end to their resistance to the Spanish and put an end to their resistance to the Independence movements – won the Battle of Ayacucho Independence movements – won the Battle of Ayacucho on Dec. 9, 1824on Dec. 9, 1824

Bolivar was invited to become dictator of Peru and Bolivar was invited to become dictator of Peru and accepted. accepted.

He then issued a radical decree abolishing slavery, and He then issued a radical decree abolishing slavery, and redistributing land – but the new government did not redistributing land – but the new government did not deliver on these….then moved ondeliver on these….then moved on

Subsequently Bolivar tried to unite Venezuela, Subsequently Bolivar tried to unite Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Panama into Gran Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Panama into Gran Colombia Colombia

But it would break up - shattering his dream of unity But it would break up - shattering his dream of unity

As the Federation he tried to build crumbled, in despair As the Federation he tried to build crumbled, in despair he decided to leave for Europe – but he became he decided to leave for Europe – but he became terminally ill with TB and died near Santa Maria in terminally ill with TB and died near Santa Maria in 1830 before he could set sail1830 before he could set sail. .

Bolivar’s Contribution to the Revolutions in Latin Bolivar’s Contribution to the Revolutions in Latin AmericaAmerica

Helped liberate several countries from Spanish controlHelped liberate several countries from Spanish control Most important figure in Revolutions in Latin America: Most important figure in Revolutions in Latin America:

inspiring general, great motivator, great victories on the inspiring general, great motivator, great victories on the battlefieldbattlefield

Helped push the Revolutions to the left / to become Helped push the Revolutions to the left / to become more liberal, at least in theory; would otherwise not more liberal, at least in theory; would otherwise not have succeeded: Creoles could not have won without have succeeded: Creoles could not have won without support from the massessupport from the masses

Very few liberal or radical reforms survived as Latin Very few liberal or radical reforms survived as Latin American countries after independence became American countries after independence became controlled by dictators / caudillos controlled by dictators / caudillos (see Keen and (see Keen and Haynes p. 179-180; HandoutHaynes p. 179-180; Handout))

In the end the Revolutions in Latin America were In the end the Revolutions in Latin America were ConservativeConservative

Political: break with Spain: Enlightenment Ideas, to a pointPolitical: break with Spain: Enlightenment Ideas, to a point Pol, Ec, Soc gains for Creole group onlyPol, Ec, Soc gains for Creole group only Few gains in reality for the masses below this group, though Few gains in reality for the masses below this group, though

the Revolutions would not have been possible without their the Revolutions would not have been possible without their contributioncontribution

Much more class separation / class conflict/ social content Much more class separation / class conflict/ social content in Latin American than in North Americain Latin American than in North America

Masses went to war against Creoles: Llaneros, slaves in Masses went to war against Creoles: Llaneros, slaves in Venezulea: peasants under Hidalgo: huge social gaps, huge Venezulea: peasants under Hidalgo: huge social gaps, huge class separation, no social mobility: masses had different class separation, no social mobility: masses had different goals than the Creoles, wanted social and economic goals than the Creoles, wanted social and economic reforms, gains, but eventually lost; Creoles triumphedreforms, gains, but eventually lost; Creoles triumphed