Independence Movements in Latin America Simon Bolivar Motivation
Independence Movements in Latin America
Simon Bolivar
Motivation to Lead • Educated in Europe and inspired by Enlightenment Ideas • Wanted to end Spain’s unfair treatment of natives in Venezuela
Important Contributions • Known as El Libertador (The Liberator) • Military Leader who led independence movement in Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, and others • Wanted to establish a united country in South America similar to the U. S. but it failed
Other facts: • Called the “George Washington of South America” • In nearly every town plaza in South America, there is a statue of Bolivar
Miguel Hidalgo
Motivation to Lead • Catholic Priest who wanted to end the unfair treatment of the poor in Mexico (mainly natives)
Important Contributions • Raised an army of over 90, 000 poor farmers • Army was untrained and easily defeated by Spanish • Executed by firing squad and then beheaded
Other facts: • Hidalgo is known as “The Father of Mexican Independence” • His head was displayed for over 10 years as a warning against further revolution th • Every year on September 16 , Mexican Independence Day, they reenact the ringing of the church bell by Hidalgo
Jose Morelos
Motivation to Lead • He was also a Catholic Priest who was inspired by Father Hidalgo • He took over revolution movement after Hidalgo’s execution
Important Contributions • Successfully organized and trained rebel army in Mexico • Led army to series of victories against Spanish • Captured in battle and executed by firing squad before Mexico won independence
Other facts: • Many areas in Mexico are named after him • His picture is often used on currency (money) in Mexico, mainly the 50 peso note
Agustin De Iturbide
Motivation to Lead • Member of the Criole class in Mexico • Sided with Mexico during fight for independence because he wanted more power
Important Contributions • Successfully defeated Spain and gained Mexico’s Independence • Wanted to keep Mexico a Monarchy, but give rule to native Mexican people • He was exiled and executed for treason by Congress, who wanted more democratic government
Other facts: • Credited as the person who designed the Mexican flag
Dom Pedro
Motivation to Lead • Portuguese soldier who sided with Brazil during independence movement • Wanted to keep Brazil’s autonomy (freedom from control)
Important Contributions • Successfully defeated Portugal’s armies in Brazil • Wanted to keep a Monarchy in Brazil • Abdicated (gave up) his thrown over pressure to establish democracy and inability to stop uprisings from democratic supporters in Brazil
Other facts: • Remains were moved and buried in Brazil th to honor the 150 anniversary of it’s Independence
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