why did the first independence efforts in Mexico fail? a. Napoleon overthrew the Spanish monarch and took control of the Spanish Empire entirely; b. Ferdinand VII was returned to the Spanish throne, which helped the government restore order; c. The creoles did not yet know how to fight for independence effectively and caused problems; or d. They lost creole support because creoles saw these movements, led by the lower classes, as too threatening
The correct answer is c. The creoles did not yet know how to fight for independence effectively and caused problems.
During the first independence efforts in Mexico, the creoles (Mexican-born individuals of Spanish descent) played a significant role. However, they lacked the experience and unity necessary to effectively lead the fight for independence. The creoles were divided among themselves, with some supporting the movement for independence while others were hesitant or even opposed to it.
Another factor that contributed to the failure of the first independence efforts in Mexico was the lack of popular support from lower classes. The movement for independence was primarily led by the creole elites, and the lower classes, including mestizos (people of mixed indigenous and European ancestry) and indigenous populations, did not see these movements as addressing their own concerns and demands.
The fear of the lower classes rising to power and potentially challenging the privileged position of the creoles also led to a loss of support for the independence movement among some creoles. They saw the movements led by the lower classes as too threatening and were apprehensive about losing their social and economic privileges.
Therefore, the lack of effective leadership from the creoles and the loss of creole support due to fear of the lower classes were significant factors that contributed to the failure of the first independence efforts in Mexico.