Compare and contrast the revolutionary movements in Venezuela, Mexico, and Brazil

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Venezuelan independence was initiated by creoles (colonial-born whites), who were large landowners seeking to hold on to their power and wealth. They wanted to retain slavery and keep power from the black and mixed-race populace. Their narrow aims angered most Venezuelans, who broadened the movement, unifying behind Simón Bolívar. Although defeated on many occasions, Bolívar successfully adapted his objectives and policies to attract new allies and build coalitions. Although initially opposed to the abolition of slavery, he agreed to support emancipation in order to draw slaves and freemen to his cause and to gain supplies from Haiti. Bolívar made astute adjustments in his political and military goals and won independence. Mexico was much more conservative and wealthy than other Spanish colonies and also had a higher percentage of Spanish-born settlers. On hearing of Napoleon's invasion of Spain, the wealthiest Spaniards in Mexico feared that the local viceroy would be too sympathetic to the creoles, and so they overthrew him. Establishing a precedent of undermining the colonial government, the revolution spread to the rural and urban poor. It was the news of a military revolt in Spain in 1820 that shattered the conservative coalition. In 1821, Colonel Agustin de Iturbide and other loyalist commanders forged an alliance and declared Mexico's independence. However, this transition to independence was conservative and highlighted by the decision to create a monarchial form of government and crown Iturbide emperor. In 1823, Mexico became a republic. The situation in Brazil was different mainly because of its Portuguese affiliation. When Napoleon invaded Portugal, the Portuguese royal family fled into exile in Brazil. Even after the French in Portugal were defeated, the royal family remained in America. The king returned to Portugal only when a liberal revolt threatened the Iberian government. His son Pedro declared Brazilian independence in 1822 and established a constitutional monarchy with himself as its head.