Exam 8: The Independence of Latin America

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The division between creoles and peninsulars grew sharper as the eighteenth century advanced due to a combination of social, economic, and political factors.

Firstly, the creoles, who were people of Spanish descent born in the Americas, began to resent the dominance and privileges of the peninsulars, who were Spanish-born individuals. The peninsulars held higher positions in government, the church, and the economy, and often looked down upon the creoles as inferior. This created a sense of inequality and resentment among the creoles, leading to a growing divide between the two groups.

Economically, the creoles were becoming more prosperous and influential as they established themselves in trade, agriculture, and other industries in the Americas. This economic success led to a desire for greater autonomy and control over their own affairs, which clashed with the interests of the peninsulars who sought to maintain their dominance and control over the colonies.

Politically, the creoles began to question the authority of the Spanish crown and sought greater representation and autonomy in colonial governance. They were inspired by the ideas of the Enlightenment and the American and French Revolutions, which emphasized the rights of individuals and the concept of self-governance. This desire for greater political power and autonomy further exacerbated the division between the creoles and peninsulars.

Overall, the growing divide between creoles and peninsulars in the eighteenth century was driven by a combination of social, economic, and political factors that led to increasing resentment, competition, and desire for autonomy among the creole population in the Spanish colonies.