Argentine War of Independence

May Revolution

• Took place from May 18 to May 25, 1810, in Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Marked the beginning of the Argentine War of Independence
• Triggered by the dismissal of Viceroy Baltasar Hidalgo de Cisneros by the Spanish Crown
• Led to the establishment of the Primera Junta, a local government that would eventually lead to independence from Spain

Causes:

• Economic crisis and trade restrictions imposed by Spain
• Influence of the French Revolution and the ideals of liberty, equality, and democracy
• Growing discontent among the criollos (local-born Spaniards) towards the Spanish colonial authorities

Key Events:

• May 18, 1810: The Cabildo Abierto (Open City Council) is held, where local leaders and citizens gather to discuss the situation and demand the removal of Viceroy Cisneros
• May 22, 1810: The Primera Junta is established, composed of local leaders such as Cornelio Saavedra, Juan José Castelli, and Manuel Belgrano
• May 25, 1810: The May Revolution is officially recognized, marking the beginning of the Argentine War of Independence

Consequences:

• The May Revolution paved the way for the Argentine War of Independence, which would last for several years
• Led to the eventual declaration of independence from Spain in 1816
• Established the basis for the modern Argentine state and its government structure