A student writing an essay identifying the causes of independence movements in Latin American and the Caribbean would include which of the following?(1 point) Responses
There are several potential causes of independence movements in Latin America and the Caribbean. A student writing an essay on this topic could include the following causes:
1. Enlightenment ideas: The ideals of the Enlightenment, such as liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty, inspired many Latin American and Caribbean intellectuals and leaders to question the authority of colonial powers and seek independence.
2. Economic factors: The economic exploitation of the colonies by European powers, particularly through systems such as the encomienda and the mercantilist trade model, led to widespread discontent and a desire for economic autonomy.
3. Social inequalities: The rigid social hierarchy in the colonies, with a small elite class dominating the majority of the population, created social tensions and grievances that fueled demands for independence.
4. Influence of the American and French Revolutions: The success of the American and French Revolutions in the late 18th century demonstrated the possibility of overthrowing colonial rule and inspired similar movements in Latin America and the Caribbean.
5. Napoleonic Wars: The invasion of Spain by Napoleon and the subsequent instability in the Spanish monarchy weakened colonial control and provided an opportunity for independence movements to gain traction.
6. Creole nationalism: The rise of a sense of Creole identity, separate from both the indigenous population and the European colonizers, played a significant role in driving the push for independence.
7. Leadership and individuals: The efforts of influential leaders, such as Simón Bolívar, José de San Martín, and Toussaint Louverture, were instrumental in organizing and leading independence movements.
8. Local resistance movements: Local indigenous and African populations, who had long suffered under colonial rule, often contributed to the independence movements through organized resistance and uprisings.
It is worth noting that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other causes that a student could include in their essay depending on the specific focus and research undertaken.