Independence of New Spain Quiz

What was a significant impact of the Bourbon Reforms on the Criollos in New Spain?

Which event is associated with the expulsion of Jesuit priests from New Spain?

Which system contributed to inequality in New Spain's social structure?

What major conflict contributed to political instability within the Spanish Empire?

How did the American and French Revolutions affect the Criollos in New Spain?

Who was installed as Emperor of Spain after Napoleon's invasion?

What role did the Jesuit priests play before their expulsion from New Spain?

What identity did the Criollos develop during their time under Spanish rule?

The Independence of New Spain

New Spain, the Spanish territory now Mexico, declared independence from Spain.
Problems in New Spain led to this decision.
The Bourbon Reforms, 18th-century political, military, and economic reforms, led to:
- Increased Spanish peninsulars in positions of power.
- Loss of privileges and increased poverty for Criollos (Spanish-born individuals in New Spain).
- Increased taxation on the Criollos.
- Increased desire to separate from Spain.
Jesuit expulsion in 1767 further fuelled dissatisfaction due to their liberal and reformist ideas.
The castas system, classifying individuals based on ethnic differences, created social inequality.
Criollos developed a distinct national identity as Novohispanos, heightened by observing the American and French Revolutions.
- The American Revolution showed successful colonial revolt.
- The French Revolution highlighted the concept of national self-determination.
Political instability existed in New Spain, exacerbated by:
- Indigenous rebellions (e.g., Pericúes, Eris, Pyas, Mayas).
The Napoleonic Wars caused widespread instability.
- Napoleon Bonaparte's invasion of Spain.
- Napoleon's installation of his brother as Spanish Emperor.
- Abdication of Fernando VII.
New Spain's desire for independence stemmed from:
- Development of national sentiment.
- Creation of a distinct Criollo social class.
- Inequality within the Spanish government.
- Struggle for a more just society.

Test your knowledge on the factors leading to the independence of New Spain, now known as Mexico. This quiz covers the Bourbon Reforms and their impact on the Criollos and the Jesuit expulsion. Explore the political, military, and economic challenges that fueled New Spain's desire for independence from Spain.