Latin American Independence (Part B)

The 'Grito de Dolores' was a call for rebellion against Spanish rule in Mexico, initiated by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. It marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence.

Miguel Hidalgo was a Mexican priest and revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in the Mexican War of Independence. He initiated the 'Grito de Dolores' and led the early stages of the rebellion.

Hidalgo's followers, comprised of Indians and mestizos, marched towards Mexico City, aiming to liberate Mexico from Spanish control. Their rebellion faced opposition from the Spanish army and Creole elites.

The Spanish army, along with Creole elites, feared the potential loss of power, property, and control over the land. They united to suppress Hidalgo's uprising in 1811.

José Maria Morelos was a Mexican priest and revolutionary leader who succeeded Miguel Hidalgo in leading the Mexican War of Independence. He continued the fight against Spanish rule for four years.

Agustin de Iturbide, a Creole officer, defeated José Maria Morelos in 1815, effectively ending Morelos's leadership in the rebellion.

A revolution in Spain in 1820 led to a liberal government that threatened the privileges of Mexican Creoles. This fear of losing their power and status prompted them to support Mexican independence.

Agustin de Iturbide, recognizing the changing political climate in Spain and the growing desire for independence amongst Mexican Creoles, declared Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821.

Napoleon's invasion of Portugal in 1807 forced King John VI and the Portuguese royal family to flee to Brazil, their largest colony.

Brazil became the capital of the Portuguese Empire for 14 years while King John VI and his court resided there.

Prince Dom Pedro, King John VI's son, remained in Brazil after the royal family returned to Portugal in 1821. This decision had a significant impact on Brazil's future.

King John VI initially planned to reassert Portugal's control over Brazil, treating it as a colony again, but faced resistance from Brazilians.

In 1822, Brazilian creoles (people of European descent born in Brazil) demanded independence from Portugal.

Dom Pedro, swayed by the petition of 8,000 Brazilians, declared Brazil's independence on September 7, 1822.

Brazil's independence was achieved through a peaceful revolution, with minimal bloodshed. This is a rare occurrence in historical revolutions.

Dom Pedro's role in Brazil's independence is significant, as he played a crucial part in the process by remaining in Brazil, supporting the movement, and ultimately declaring the country's independence.