Latin America Test 1

Platt Amendment

(1902-1903) provisions... 1. Cuba was not to enter into any agreements with foreign powers that would endanger its independence. 2. The U.S. could intervene in Cuban affairs if  necessary to maintain an efficient, independent govt. 3. Cuba leased Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. for a naval and coaling station. 4. Cuba must not build up an excessive public debt

Miguel Hidalgo

*Independence in Mexico... Independence in Mexico was sparked by Father Miguel Hidalgo (1753 - 1811), a priest living and working in the small town of Dolores. He and a small group of conspirators started the rebellion by ringing the church bells on the morning of Sept. 16, 1810 ("The Cry of Dolores"). ...His ragtag army made it partway to the capital before being driven back, and Hidalgo himself was captured and executed in July of 1811.

Independence in Mexico

*Independence in Mexico... Independence in Mexico was sparked by Father Miguel Hidalgo (1753 - 1811), a priest living and working in the small town of Dolores. He and a small group of conspirators started the rebellion by ringing the church bells on the morning of Sept. 16, 1810 ("The Cry of Dolores"). ...His ragtag army made it partway to the capital before being driven back, and Hidalgo himself was captured and executed in July of 1811. ...Its leader gone, the Mexican Independence movement almost failed, but command was assumed by José María Morelos (1765 - 1815), another priest and a talented field marshal. ...Morelos won a series of impressive victories against Spanish forces before being captured and executed in Dec. 1815

Panama Canal

*The Panama Canal issue: Under U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, the U.S. helped Panama rebel against Colombian rule and gain independence. What happened in return? Columbia didn't want US influence Result? U.S./Colombian relations were strained for a while. Colombia stood in the way So US funded a rebellion In 1904 the U.S. sponsored and began construction of the Panama canal. The canal was completed in 1914. The total $375 million How many men died building it?Up to 15,000 dying from injuries and diseases , wages were high What happened in 1999 concerning the Canal? It was given to Panama, Jimmy Carter, in the 70's said they could have it in 20 years It has become less useful...too narrow 5 billion dollars in profit has occurred since 1999 Panama wants US to take it back because it's expensive to run Gave Panama 10 million for the land to build Canal

More Santa Anna Facts

-During most of the Mexican Revolution, Santa Anna was a loyalist. In 1821, he became a rebel. -Santa Anna served as President of Mexico 11X (between 1823-1855). -Santa Anna was twice married. After 19 years of marriage, his first wife died. A month later, he married a 15 year old girl. ...Santa Anna was 50 years old. While exiled in New York, Santa Anna made a business transaction (1860s) with Thomas Adams to import "chicle" to the U.S. ...Why? To what end? Chicle did not succeed as a replacement for rubber though, but as a gum substance, which was cut into strips, flavored and marketed as 'Adams New York Chewing Gum' in 1871. -Santa Anna was a passionate fan of 'cockfighting'. He invested tens of thousands of dollars in the "sport". In 1855 Santa Anna was ousted for the last time and forced into exile by a revolt of liberal army officers. A liberal government under President Ignacio Comonfort oversaw a constitutional convention that drafted the progressive constitution of 1857. The new constitution contained a bill of rights that included habeas corpus protection and religious freedom and mandated the secularization of education and the confiscation of Catholic Church lands

Incas

-The Inca Amer-Indians... As early as 1000 BC some villages in the central Andes Mountains became religious centers. By 1438 AD, the Incas had conquered a large area around their capital of Cuzco. By the early 1500s, the empire stretched 2,000 miles along the Pacific coast and included areas of the modern day nations of... Ecuador Peru They developed impressive means of pottery making and weaving. They also mined gold and silver and became accomplished jewelry makers. They practiced "terrace-farming" along the Andes Mountain ranges and grew... potatoes, squash, beans, peanuts and cotton. Incas practices slavery Conquistadors enslave Incas An impressive road system was developed to connect the vast empire. Discuss... -Travelers went on foot. Similar to Aztec, four meters wide Why?... No horses introduced yet They used Llamas and alpacas The Inca emperor had 'absolute power' and was considered a descendant from the sun god. If one criticized the emperor, it could lead to... immediate execution The Incas did NOT have a written language but still kept detailed records of the size of the population, etc. using the quipu to keep numerical records. Discuss... Governmentally, the Inca Empire was actually more tightly organized than the Aztec Empire. Discuss... Used fear to keep people in line Incas controlled indingous groups as slave masters Mix dissidents with loyals Spy network develeoped Sub leaders subject to emperor The Inca government kept a tight hold over its people's lives. They conquered many indigenous groups and forced them to accept the Incan religion (polytheistic). ...To keep these people loyal, they would resettle them in the midst of loyal groups.

NAFTA

1. In 1994, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) went into effect. It was an agreement between the U.S., Canada & Mexico which has provided for free trade among these three countries by removing or reducing restrictions to trade, such as tariffs and quotas, and providing a fair method for settling disputes. 2. NAFTA has made it much more profitable for Americans to invest in Mexico. Increased investment have been particularly noticeable in 'industrial plants' that deal with the final assembly of products destined for the United States. 3. Even though the 'agreement' has decreased unemployment in Mexico, the incomes of the employed have actually fallen. 4. There have been some overall improvements though to the quality of life in Mexico due to NAFTA.

Aftermath of the Early Independence Movements. What circumstances followed

1. None of the movements brought about significant changes in the previously established social order. 2. Physical violence of the wars brought economic disaster. 3. The economies of the new nations were overwhelmingly based on agriculture and mining. 4. Commerce and trade had come to an almost complete standstill between 1810-1826. 5. Internal fighting among some Latin American countries occurred. 6. Dictatorships (Caudillos) often formed. 7. In some nations such as Mexico, there was ongoing infighting that continued for decades. 8. National treasuries were empty and tax collection was difficult to implement. 9. Many Latin American nations went into great debt with such European powers as Great Britain and eventually with France.

Constitution of 1917

1. The Constitutional guidelines were to apply to all Mexicans. 2. Slavery was forbidden in the United Mexican States. 3. Government based schools were to be improved & expanded. 4. Freedom of religious beliefs were guaranteed. 5. There would be greater freedoms for writing and publishing. 6. Protections for laborers. 7. Greater freedom of expression. 8. The right to assemble or associate peaceably for any lawful purpose. 9. The right to own and bear arms. 10. No titles of nobility or hereditary honors were to be granted.

Treaty of Tordesillas

1494 agreement that divided New World lands between Spain and Portugal. The Treaty of Tordesillas (Line of Demarcation) ratified in 1494 by the Kingdoms of Spain & Portugal would set up a system in which lands to the east would belong to Portugal & lands to the west to Spain. ...The end result significance? Spread Spanish influence Portugal got Brazil The Treaty of Tordesillas (Portuguese: Tratado de Tordesilhas [tɾɐˈtaðu ðɨ tuɾðɨˈziʎɐʃ], Spanish: Tratado de Tordesillas [tɾaˈtaðo ðe toɾðeˈsiʎas]), signed at Tordesillas (now in Valladolid province, Spain) on 7 June 1494 and authenticated at Setúbal, Portugal, divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe between Portugal and Spain along a meridian 370 leagues[note 1] west of the Cape Verde islands (off the west coast of Africa). This line of demarcation was about halfway between the Cape Verde Islands (already Portuguese) and the islands entered by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage (claimed for Spain), named in the treaty as Cipangu and Antilia (Cuba and Hispaniola). The lands to the east would belong to Portugal and the lands to the west to Spain. The treaty was ratified by Spain (at the time, the Crowns of Castile and Aragon), 2 July 1494 and by Portugal, 5 September 1494. The other side of the world would be divided a few decades later by the Treaty of Zaragoza or Saragossa, signed on 22 April 1529, which specified the antimeridian to the line of demarcation specified in the Treaty of Tordesillas. Originals of both treaties are kept at the Archivo General de Indias in Spain and at the Arquivo Nacional da Torre do Tombo in Portugal.[6]

Rio de la Plata (viceroyalty of peru)

1776- Rio de la Plata (Bolivia, Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina). What were the old viceroyalties?... New Spain & Peru (both established in the 1500s)

Progress for women in Mexico

1947: Women were granted the right to vote on the local level. 1953: Women were granted the right to run for public office during elections and were given the right to vote in national elections. Since the 1950s, progress in legal and economic rights for women has been slow but sure & has varied from state to state. The government, however, has been inconsistent in protecting equal rights.

Downfall of Villa

After a series of defeats in 1915, Villa's dominance in northern Mexico was broken. Villa's famous raid on New Mexico & supposedly Texas as well in 1916 led to a U.S. counter-invasion of Mexico... causing Villa to go into hiding. Questionable contact between the Germans & Villa took place during the World War I years. Villa went into retirement in 1920 and was given a large estate... which he used as a homestead for his former soldiers. He was assissinated in 1923. Why? Why was Villa assassinated? Around 1923 he gets interested in politics again...he is then killed in his own car...last residue of the revolution

Iturbide

After an 11 year struggle for indepence, Spanish forces, outmaneuvered politically as well as militarily, lost the will to continue the war against the revolutionaries. ...Thus, Ferdinand VII recognized Mexican independence (September 1821). Around this same time, General Agustín de Iturbide (of the Mexican Army) built a successful military and political coalition that took control of Mexico City. Thus, in 1821, Iturbide was proclaimed 'President of the Regency'. The following year, Iturbide proclaimed himself to be the 'Constitutional Emperor' of Mexico & took the title... Augustine I of Mexico (r. May 1822 - March 1823). Augustine & the Mexican flag-original design Within months after his imperial rule began, Iturbide's regime was bankrupt and losing the support of the "criollo" elite. In 1823, Iturbide was overthrown by republican forces under the command of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. ...The Mexican Empire was dissolved when the 'United Provinces of Central America' declared their independence in July 1823.

Progress in Mexican Educational System

After the 1910 Revolution ended, the Mexican government increasingly established public schools as well as practical training style universities. ...Currently, there are at least 2,000 universities in Mexico. The 1917 Constitution provided that education should avoid privileges of religion, and that one religion or its members may not be given preference in education over another. The number of students in Mexico's public or private school systems has surged from 3 million in 1950 to at least 32 million (presently).

Aztec Educational System

All Aztec children had to attend school. Both boys and girls had to learn how to read and write, correctly use medicines, compose poetry and debate. Education made it possible for a young man from the lower classes to become a high-ranking government official.

Argentine Rebellion

Argentina drew up its own government on May 25, 1810... in response to Napoleon's capture of Spain. However, Argentina would NOT formally declare independence until 1816. ...Argentine rebels fought several small battles against Spanish forces. Most of their efforts went towards fighting larger Spanish garrisons in Peru and Bolivia Jose de San Martin (1778 - 1850) would work cooperatively with Bolivar, from 1817 - 1824, to flush Spanish forces out of Peru and Chile. ...Argentinean freedom had actually been somewhat fragile since its foundation. Therefore, San Martin's successful ventures were what ensured Argentina its independence

Developments in Central American Economy

As a whole, Central America has become a noteworthy producer & exporter of coffee, a variety of fruit, copper, gold, silver, and zinc. ...The socio-economic class system, however, has not changes too much over the last century. Since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) went into effect (1994), some Central American countries have been impacted such as Guatemala & El Salvador and industrialism has expanded along with trade. Since the mid-1900s, all Central American countries had maintained diplomatic & heavy trade relations preferably with Taiwan instead of China. ...However, President Oscar Arias of Costa Rica, set a new trend & established diplomatic relations with China in 2007, severing formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. *As a result, Chinese made products are now pouring into Central America

Antonio Jose de Sucre

Assisted Bolivar in Campaigns for independence in South America, won against Spain in Pinicniaha,

Battle of Pichincha

Battle of Pichincha-Capitol of Ecuador, Sucre takes 3100 against those at the fort at Pchincha (top of mountain) Sucre took the mountain, even though Spanish had higher ground, Sucre succeeded,

Spanish Inquisition of 1492

Columbus set of Viceroy in Carribean Didn't acknowledge that it was a new continent 1492 Catholicism solidified in Spain (last of Morse people) Many peaceful conversions among indingious, but some forced Find correlations to old religion

Simon Bolivar

Bolivar would serve as president of Gran Colombia from 1819 until his death in 1830. By 1831, Gran Colombia would disband and a number of splintering independent nations emerged. Simon Bolivar served as president of Gran Colombia from 1819 until his death in 1830. As a leader, what were his beliefs or goals?... 1. Although liberal in some respects, in his famous "Jamaica Letter" he expressed strong doubts about the capacity of his fellow Latin Americans for self-government and revealed his socially conservative and politically authoritarian side by stating... "Do not adopt the best system of government, but the one most likely to succeed." ...Thus, his rule was rather oligarchical. 2. He did promote suffrage rights if his subjects passed certain socioeconomic and literacy qualifications. 3. Although he favoured the granting of civil liberties to all male citizens and the abolition of slavery, Bolívar also worried that a system of ethnically mixed people groups would threaten the unity of Gran Colombia . 4. He also dreamed of a united Latin American Nation, but regardless, individual nation-states were carved out of previus unions and have ever since been somewhat competitive with each other. Excluded indigenous and some mestizos from voting

Some key U.S. victories during the Mexican-America War

Buena Vista (Feb. 1847): Around 20,000 Mexicans under the leadership of Santa Anna clashed with around 5,000 Americans under the command of Taylor in northern Mexico. Result? A crushing blow to Mexican Forces. Veracruz (March 1847): Scott's U.S. forces broke the defensive lines of Juan Esteban Morales, captured Morales & many of his men and marched on to Mexico City. Battle of Mexico City (Sept. 1847): The city was systematically conquered by U.S. forces. Scott's 7,000 man army took on Santa Anna's 16,000 man army. Worth noting: In the first and latter battles mentioned, the Mexican Army was not only outnumbered by the Americans, but they had the defensive advantage of being entrenched behind secure fortified positions and often commanded the high grounds. Discuss.

Collapse of the Aztecs and Hernan Cortes, and Conquistadors

By 1519, Spanish Conquistadors under Hernan Cortés (1485 - 1547) with 100 sailors, 530 soldiers (most armed with only a sword and shield), 16 horses, several small cannons and an additional force of 100,000 indigenous enemies of the Aztecs... conquered the empire. Wanted to exploit land Died of natural causes Brought horses for the first time (freaked out Aztecs) Cortes burned his ships Cortes dies bankrupt Discuss the downfall of the Aztecs, Montezuma II (1466- 1520) & Cuauhtémoc (Kwah-TAY-mok) his cousin (1495 - 1521). STORY TIME... Montezuma was emperor, died from the hands of his own people. His relative Cuahtemoc took over briefly as new emperor, Cauhtomoc was captured and tortued by Cortes, was executed around 1525, Cortes then forms a Viceroy over New Spain (Mexico). The Aztecs then go from 15 million to 1 million in a matter of decades. The people who sided with Cortes often died out from diseases. Subjegated slaves.

Villa

By 1914 opposing forces formed & the bloodshed reached new heights as continued infighting occurred among rival bands loosely allied with Venustiano Carranza & Francisco "Pancho" Villa. U.S. support for Carranza prompted Villa to retaliate by raiding several U.S. border towns. ...In response, the United States dispatched troops under General John J. Pershing on an unsuccessful expedition into northern Mexico to either kill or capture Villa. Discuss... What happened to Villa?... Black Jack Pershing had to pull out of Mexico because of WWI, he tried to find Villa, a terrorist, Villa invaided New Mexico Pershing and Wilson saw this as a reason to find Villa by invading Mexico, Pershing never found Villa, it is a mountainous terrain

Mexican American War

By April 1846, a growing dispute with the United States over the boundaries of Texas (Nueces River v. Rio Grande) led to war between the two nations. At that time, Mariano Paredes was President of Mexico. James K. Polk was the U.S. President. U.S. Army forces (under such leaders as Zachary Taylor) advanced from Texas and quickly captured northern Mexico & the area now known as New Mexico. U.S. General Winfield Scott would command U.S. Forces in the (Southern Front) and invaded Veracruz by sea. Main Objective?... Both Taylor & Scott's forces were to penetrate deep into Mexico from their northern and southern bases in order to reach and conquer Mexico City. US Navy superior Fighting only last for a year Short war Bloodless for US At this time, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna saw this crisis as an ambitious opportunity and emerged out of exile. He once again became the leader of Mexico. Discuss... Technically, the Mexican Army in size, appearance, equipment and training was supposed to be (perhaps) the finest in the Western Hemisphere. And in all honesty, the Mexicans almost always outnumbered the Americans in the major battles of this war. ...However, due to poor leadership, the Mexican Army never won any major battles. Discuss. Santa Anna claimed to US that if were allowed into Mexico he would gain power and make peace by selling the Mexican session to US, he didn't do that, he became president without doing the peace Santa Anna claimed to US that if were allowed into Mexico he would gain power and make peace by selling the Mexican session to US, he didn't do that, he became president without doing the peace Mexican won major battles even though they had less people and lower ground Paredes wanted to claim the land for Mexico Mexico saw the invasion as beginning the war....believe that US stole the Mexican session

Mexican Revolution Windsdown

Carranza negotiated a cease-fire among several of the warring Mexican factions in December 1916 and restored order to most of the country by accepting the radical Constitution of 1917. Rural violence continued in the south, until Emiliano Zapata (another bandit) was lured into a 'peace talks' meeting & assissinated by Carranza's forces in Nov. 1920. The Mexican Revolution exacted a heavy human and economic toll; more than 1 million deaths were attributed to the violence.

Central America and the Caribbean stats

Ch. 4: Central America & the Caribbean List of Countries & Modern Statistics Nicaragua* Area: 50,336 square miles (130,370 sq km) Population: 5,666,301 Capital: Managua 2: Honduras* Area: 43,278 square miles (112,090 sq km) Population: 8,143,564 Capital: Tegucigalga 3) Cuba* Area: 42,803 square miles (110,860 sq km) Population: 11,087,330 Capital: Havana 4) Guatemala* Area: 42,042 square miles (108,889 sq km) Population: 13,824,463 Capital: Guatemala City 5) Panama* Area: 29,119 square miles (75,420 sq km) Population: 3,460,462 Capital: Panama City 6) Costa Rica* Area: 19,730 square miles (51,100 sq km) Population: 4,576,562 Capital: San Jose 7) Dominican Republic Area: 18,791 square miles (48,670 sq km) Population: 9,956,648 Capital: Santo Domingo a: 10,714 square miles (27,750 sq km) Population: 9,719,932 Capital: Port au Prince 9) Belize* Area: 8,867 square miles (22,966 sq km) Population: 321,115 Capital: Belmopan 10) El Salvador* Area: 8,124 square miles (21,041 sq km) Population: 6,071,774 Capital: San Salvador 11) The Bahamas Area: 5,359 square miles (13,880 sq km) Population: 313,312 Capital: Nassau 12) Jamaica Area: 4,243 square miles (10,991 sq km) Population: 2,868,380 Capital: Kingston 8) Haiti Area: 10,714 square miles (27,750 sq km) Population: 9,719,932 Capital: Port au Prince 9) Belize* Area: 8,867 square miles (22,966 sq km) Population: 321,115 Capital: Belmopan 10) El Salvador* Area: 8,124 square miles (21,041 sq km) Population: 6,071,774 Capital: San Salvador 11) The Bahamas Area: 5,359 square miles (13,880 sq km) Population: 313,312 Capital: Nassau 12) Jamaica Area: 4,243 square miles (10,991 sq km) Population: 2,868,380 Capital: Kingston 3) Trinidad and Tobago Area: 1,980 square miles (5,128 sq km) Population: 1,227,505 Capital: Port of Spain 14) Dominica Area: 290 square miles (751 sq km) Population: 72,969 Capital: Roseau 15) Saint Lucia Area: 237 square miles (616 sq km) Population: 161,557 Capital: Castries 16) Antigua and Barbuda Area: 170 square miles (442 sq km) Population: 87,884 Capital: Saint John's 17) Barbados Area: 166 square miles (430 sq km) Population: 286,705 Capital: Bridgetown 18) Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Area: 150 square miles (389 sq km) Population: 103,869 Capital: Kingstown 19) Grenada Area: 133 square miles (344 sq km) Population: 108,419 Capital: Saint George's 20) Saint Kitts and Nevis Area: 100 square miles (261 sq km) Population: 50,314 Capital: Basseterre

Costa Rica and Lack of Cooperation with rest of Central America FIX THIS ONE

Costa Rica avoided membership with CACM & CAP. Why?... ...Comparatively speaking, Costa Rica has had a history of relative economic prosperity and political stability. ...Therefore, it chose NOT to participate in the CACM apparently because it lacked the need to do so. It is also widely believed that Costa Rica's economy has been relatively successful due to the fact that when the Spanish arrived, there was not a large indigenous population in its region. ...Therefore, a 'two-tier' society, with the Spaniards on top and the indigenous population on the bottom, did NOT evolve as it did in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Instead, its population was primarily made up of Spaniards. There was then less fighting between different racial classes, so they had more stability. Because they were more stable, they did not feel the need to cooperate and join with the poorer nations of central America

Cuban War for Independence

Cuba was the last major Spanish colony to gain independence. Why? The lengthy struggle for freedom began in 1868. Jose Marti, Cuba's national hero, helped initiate the final push for independence in 1895. *Discuss U.S. interests in the midst. In February 1898,the USS Maine sunk in Havana Harbor due to an explosion of questionable origins. ...Thus, the United States entered the conflict. In December of 1898, Spain relinquished control of Cuba to the United States through the Treaty of Paris. Why was Cuba last to gain independence? Remained loyal to Spain because lessons have been learned from what had happened in other Latin Countries, Cuba was an assest to Spain, Spain didn't want to lose them, gave them a good amount of autonomy and recognition....eventually wants freedom, first through diplomacy...spain didn't agree US interest in the midst-Jose Marti in prison, poor conditions, US cries Monroe Doctrine, atrocities going on in Cuba, US also had money invested in Cuba, American Hacenda owners, Financial interest in Cuba, also genuine sympathy, also, Imperalist opprtunities, War put Tampa on the map, 300,000 men to help rebels, rebel force ususally did not exceed 30,000 There were a good share of cubans that were loyalists, it was essentially a civil war, most of the fighting was against loylist cubans War took four months....April-August US turns Cuba into a protectorate status, between territory and having autonomy More than 10,000 Cuban rebels died between 1895-1898. Around 2,200 Cubans died during the four months alone of fighting alongside U.S. allies during the Cuban War for Independence. 350 US died from bullet wounds, a couple thousand died from disease

Foundations for Rebellion

Discuss the foundations for rebellion... -The Crown started to extend its authority. Charles III comparable to george III -The Creole population often felt disfranchised from certain political positions. They had more citizens than peninsularles, Creoles used their power and wealth to fund the uprisings

So what was going on in Spain during the 1400s when both the Aztec & Inca Empires were at their height?

Disunion The Kingdoms of Castile & Aragorn united into a new nation... Hispania (1469). Discuss the impact...Ferdinand and Isabella marry to unite spain. Promote catholoicism By 1492, the last real desvicice of morsh people are taken out by Spain, (less Muslims)Wanted to go across ocean to compete with portugual ...sent columbus (Italian)Sponsored Columbus's voyageTrying to find a shorter route to India and ChinaThougt he landed in China, never acknowledged that it was a new contitent

1940-Present

During World War II and the early years of the Cold War, Mexico's presidential administrations repaired strained relations with the United States and returned to more conservative policies. During this period, Mexico pursued an economic development strategy that relied on heavy public-sector investment to modernize the national economy. Mexican governments also followed 'conservative' policies on interest and exchange rates that helped maintain low rates of inflation and attracted foreign 'capital' to support industrialization. ...This dual strategy helped maintain steady economic growth & low rates of inflation through the 1960s.

Mexican 1970-80's Debt Crisis

During the 1970s, the 'public sector' grew dramatically, and state-owned enterprises became a mainstay of the national economy. Massive government spending was sustained in part by revenues from the export of newly discovered offshore Oil deposits. ---By the late 1970s, Oil and petrochemicals had become the most dynamic means of income for the nation. However, by the 1980s economic turmoil set in due to... 1. falling oil prices 2. higher world interest rates 3. rising inflation 4. a chronically overvalued peso 5. and a deteriorating balance of payments that spurred massive capital flight. In August 1982, the Mexican government defaulted on scheduled debt repayments... This brought on a huge debt crisis. President López Portillo (1976-1982) of the PRI responded to the crisis by nationalizing the banking industry, further undermining investor confidence. The next president, Miguel de la Madrid Hurtado (1982-1988) of the PRI, implemented severe economic measures that laid the groundwork for economic recovery. For example, in 1986, Mexico entered the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) treaty, following its efforts at reforming & decentralising its economy. In September 1985, Mexico suffered another blow when two major earthquakes struck the central part of the country. ...Between 5,000 and 10,000 people were believed to have died and 300,000 left homeless in the worst natural disaster in Mexico's modern history. Also, many victims lost their lives when relatively new high-rise buildings collapsed - due to safety code & construction violations. The extensive death tolls and the government's inadequate response to these disasters further undermined public confidence in the PRI-dominated political system

Sandistas and Contras

During the late 1970s - 1980s, the U.S. supported various 'Contra' groups that fought against the Sandinista Party & political regime that ran the Nicaraguan government (1979-1990). The Sandinistas took their name from Augusto Sandino. Why did the U.S. have issues with the Sandinistas & thus support Rebel (Contra) groups? Both the Sandinistas & the Contras were accused of 'Human Rights' violations. Discuss the 'Iran-Contra Affair' (1986) & results. Daniel Ortega (President: 1979-1990) lost the 1990 election via questionable means. ...He regained the presidency in 2007. Why did US have issues with the Sandinistas?-The Soviets back them, they are communististic. US backs up Contras, freedom loving, Jimmy Carter send funds and arms to help Contras. Reagan does arms deals with Contras....even though congress decided that they shouldn't do this anymore...Reagan said he didn't know what was going on...He was selling guns because he needed money to get captives out of Iran....doing business with terrorist state Iran-

PRI

During this period, a series of strong central governments led by former generals of the revolutionary armies governed Mexico. Most Mexican presidents complied with the constitutional provision mandating a single six-year term with no re-election. During the late 1920s, President Plutarco Elías Calles (1924-1928) established many of the institutions that would define the Mexican political system throughout the twentieth century. ...This system was based on an authoritarian state controlled by the new Institutional Revolutionary Party (Partido Revolucionario Institucional... PRI) headed by a powerful 'executive branch'. PRI still prominent today The PRI (founded in 1929) & its leaders promoted... Economic 'nationalism' Limited land collectivization Military subordination to civilian authority Anticlericalism The peaceful resolution of social conflict through corporative style representation.

Incas Geography

Ecuador, Peru and Chille

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

Ended Mexican American War, (1848) treaty signed by the U.S. and Mexico that officially ended the Mexican-American War; Mexico had to give up much of its northern territory to the U.S (Mexican Cession); in exchange the U.S. gave Mexico $15 million and said that Mexicans living in the lands of the Mexican Cession would be protected The Mexican Government accepted total defeat and unconditionally surrendered to the United States. In return, the 'Mexican Cession' (522,568 sq. miles of land) was handed over to the U.S. ...More than 40% of Mexico's pre-war terrain. ...Sadly for Mexico, many parts of this huge land-loss would become U.S. mining bastions & agricultural havens.

What happened in early 1800's that lead to revolt?

Fighting going on in spain, were allied with French, french troops come in, Ferdinant gets out of power, Joseph comes to power, then he becomes ousted out with wellington of briatain and spanish, ferdinant back from throne Ferdidnand acts crappy, Spanish most valuable possessions are lost by revoltsthrou

The Collapse the Incas

Francisco Pizarro (1471? - 1541) gained permission from King Charles V of Spain (reigned 1519 - 1556) to attempt the conquest of the South American west coast. He invaded South America in 1532. The Inca ruler, Atahaulpa (at-ah-WAHL-puh) (1497 - 1533) volunteered to meet him cordially, but was immediately taken prisoner. ...War resulted! STORY TIME!!! The indigenous, the incas and those subject by the Incas were intrugied by glass. Spanish traded glass for gold. Held Atahaulupa hostage until Inca's filled a room with gold. Got it mostly filled, byt Pizarro had Athalupa strangled Pizarro's people turn on him, gets stabbed multiple times, legend has it that he took his own blood and smeared a cross on the floor, praying

Battle of Trafalagar

French and Spanish fleet crushed, couldn't recover from this, transportation hurt (supplies and troops) hurt attempts to hold onto Latin America...then independence is achieved

...

From 1912- 1933, the United States systematically occupied Nicaragua during a phase known as the Banana Wars. United States military interventions in Nicaragua were intended to prevent the construction of the Nicaraguan Canal by any nation but the United States. As a result, Nicaragua assumed a 'quasi-protectorate' status under the Chamorro-Bryan Treaty (1916). The occupation ended by 1933 as Augusto Sandino, (a Nicaraguan revolutionary), led 'guerrilla' armies against U.S. troops. ...The onset of the Great Depression made it costly for the U.S. government to maintain the occupation. Therefore a withdrawal was ordered. Didn't want competition for Panama

Impact of Colombian Exchange

From Europe to America: Bannanas, Cattle, Chickens, Citrus fruit, Coffee beans, grapes, Horses, Onions, Peaches, Pigs, Rice Sugar cane, Wheat From America To Europe: Beans, Cacao, Corn, Peanuts, Pineapples, potatoes, pumpkins, Squash, sweet potatoes, Tobacco, tomatoes, turkey

Turmoil with Santa Anna

From the 1820's - 1840s, several states openly rebelled against Santa Anna's radical dictatorial changes. Examples?... Coahuila y Tejas (the northern part of which would become the Republic of Texas), San Luis Potosí, Querétaro, Durango, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Yucatán, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, & Zacatecas. Several of these states formed their own governments: the Republic of the Rio Grande, the Republic of Yucatan, and the Republic of Texas. Only the Texans defeated Santa Anna and retained their independence

*Discuss the rebellion of Gran Colombia (1813 - 1824) led by Simon Bolivar (1783 - 1830).

Gran Colombia consisted of areas now belonging to Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru. (new granda) Doesn't hold All countries split off and form independent countries Simon Bolivar & the various Independence Movements of South America-responisble for independence movements securees aregentiant and bolivian freedom Bolivar born to creole family, went to military school, was married, wife died young, had many courtiers, never married again, dies at 47. Was a great general, was president of bolivia and president of peru Bolivar "The Latin American George Washington" assisted by Antonio Jose de Sucre (1795 - 1830), led numerous campaigns throughout the region. Together they systematically expelled Spanish forces out of northwestern South America.

Gran Colombia

Gran Colombia consisted of areas now belonging to Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru. (new granda) Doesn't hold All countries split off and form independent countries Simon Bolivar & the various Independence Movements of South America-responisble for independence movements securees aregentiant and bolivian freedom Bolivar born to creole family, went to military school, was married, wife died young, had many courtiers, never married again, dies at 47. Was a great general, was president of bolivia and president of peru Bolivar "The Latin American George Washington" assisted by Antonio Jose de Sucre (1795 - 1830), led numerous campaigns throughout the region. Together they systematically expelled Spanish forces out of northwestern South America. Bolivar would serve as president of Gran Colombia from 1819 until his death in 1830. By 1831, Gran Colombia would disband and a number of splintering independent nations emerged. Simon Bolivar served as president of Gran Colombia from 1819 until his death in 1830. As a leader, what were his beliefs or goals?... 1. Although liberal in some respects, in his famous "Jamaica Letter" he expressed strong doubts about the capacity of his fellow Latin Americans for self-government and revealed his socially conservative and politically authoritarian side by stating... "Do not adopt the best system of government, but the one most likely to succeed." ...Thus, his rule was rather oligarchical. 2. He did promote suffrage rights if his subjects passed certain socioeconomic and literacy qualifications. 3. Although he favoured the granting of civil liberties to all male citizens and the abolition of slavery, Bolívar also worried that a system of ethnically mixed people groups would threaten the unity of Gran Colombia . 4. He also dreamed of a united Latin American Nation, but regardless, individual nation-states were carved out of previus unions and have ever since been somewhat competitive with each other. Excluded indigenous and some mestizos from voting

Tenochtitlan

In 1325, the Aztecs built the village of Tenochtitlan (Teh-NAWCH-teet-lahn) which existed in what is now modern-day Mexico City.

Ingnacio Comonfort and Constitution

In 1855 Santa Anna was ousted for the last time and forced into exile by a revolt of liberal army officers. A liberal government under President Ignacio Comonfort oversaw a constitutional convention that drafted the progressive constitution of 1857. The new constitution contained a bill of rights that included habeas corpus protection and religious freedom and mandated the secularization of education and the confiscation of Catholic Church lands The 1857 Constitution was strongly opposed by conservatives and church officials who objected to its anticlerical provisions. In January 1858, after unsuccessful efforts by Comonfort to craft a political compromise, the factions took up arms, & Comonfort was forced from office. Thus, a 3 year civil war (1858-1861) between Conservative and Liberal armies, known as the War of the Reform, engulfed the country. The Liberals, led by the prominent Zapotec Amerindian politician & former vice president, Benito Juárez, gained the upper hand. ...In January 1861, Juárez was elected president.

Maximilian I

In 1866-1867, a growing 'Liberal' insurgency under Benito Juárez and the threat of war with Prussia had compelled France's withdrawal from Mexico. Moreover, by that point, the American Civil War had ended releasing the United States to genuinely threaten involvement in Mexican affairs. Shortly thereafter, Maximilian was captured and executed by Juárez's forces. ...Juárez was restored to the presidency and remained in office until his death in 1872

CACM

In 1907, a Central American Court of Justice was created. -In 1960: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua established the Central American Common Market ("CACM") ...with the goal to create greater political unification & industrial 'self-reliance'. The 'CACM' project was an immediate economic success, but was abandoned after the brief 1969 "Football War" between El Salvador and Honduras. Why did it occur? The 'Football War' indirectly caused the El Salvador Civil War (1979-1992). Discuss.

Migration Issues

In 2008, there were 11.4 million Mexican immigrants in the United States, accounting for 10% of all Mexicans (world-wide). More than 1/2 of all Mexican immigrants residing in the United States are illegals. The level of immigration has somewhat declined since 2007. Why?... Currently, more than 11% of Mexico's native population lives abroad. In recent years, the issue of illegal aliens slipping into (ie.) California or across the Rio Grande into Texas has increased hostilities between Mexico & the United States.

Operation Just Cause

In December 1989, the United States (under President George H.W. Bush) invaded Panama in "Operation Just Cause". During the invasion, 'de facto' Panamanian president & general Manuel Noriega (a dicator) was deposed & president-elect Guillermo Endara sworn into office. ...Arguably, Endara was the victor of the '89 election. But, regardless, Noriega tried to hold on to power. Why did the U.S. & even France wish to apprehend Noriega? ...What happened to him? Noriega was a drug dealer, exporting drugs and used drug money to try win election, but Noriega didn't recognize the election results after he lost in 89, US raids his palace and captures him, tried him in Florida, he tried to petition to go home and be set free, now he is in Jail in Panama

Napoleon III

In January 1862, the navies of Spain, Britain, and France jointly occupied the Mexican Gulf coast in an attempt to compel the repayment of public debts. Britain and Spain quickly withdrew, but the French remained and, in May 1863, occupied Mexico City. Drawing on the support of Mexican 'Conservatives', Napoleon III installed as a "puppet" ruler Austrian prince & close family friend... Ferdinand Maximilian von Habsburg as Maximilian I (Emperor of Mexico ...reigned April 1864 - June 1867)

What became of Brazil

In September of 1822, Brazil gained its independence from Portugal in a bloodless revolt. Pedro I (1798 - 1834) assumed the monarchy and became Brazil's first king. ...What made matters in Brazil (in its quest to gain independence) so different from its Spanish neighbors? Brazil was more populated and wealthy, Dom Juan left Dom Pedro in charge in Brazil, Pedro falls under a lot of scrutinty and pressure to betray his father and formalize brazilian independence, he does so and becomes first king of Brazil

Mexican War Continued

In the midst of this conflict, California would rise up under American leaders such as John C. Fremont and fight to expel Mexican forces out of its borders (It temporarily functioned as an "independent" nation... The Bear Flag Republic).

The "Porfiriato" Era (1876-1910):

In this era, the 'Liberal' caudillo... Porfirio Díaz served as Mexican president 3X for about 31 years... collectively. Díaz pursued economic modernization while maintaining authoritarian political control. In contrast to his liberal predecessors, Díaz established cordial relations with the Catholic Church, an institution he considered central to Mexican national identity. Although the urban middle class of Mexico experienced substantial improvements in the quality of life, the peasant majority found its livelihood threatened by the loss of communal lands to the haciendas. To halt the growing unrest across the country, Díaz developed a paramilitary force that became notorious for its repressive tactics. Díaz's fraudulent re-election in 1910 made matters worse. Unable to regain control of several rebellious state capitals, Díaz resigned the presidency in May 1911 and fled to France

By the early 1800s, the military establishment in the various Viceroyalty systems in Latin America was ripe for rebellion. Why?

Instability from Bourbons and the Joseph stuff, social instability, trying to get itself get back together

Jose Maria Morelos

Its leader gone, the Mexican Independence movement almost failed, but command was assumed by José María Morelos (1765 - 1815), another priest and a talented field marshal. ...Morelos won a series of impressive victories against Spanish forces before being captured and executed in Dec. 1815

Jose de San Martin

Jose de San Martin (1778 - 1850) would work cooperatively with Bolivar, from 1817 - 1824, to flush Spanish forces out of Peru and Chile. ...Argentinean freedom had actually been somewhat fragile since its foundation. Therefore, San Martin's successful ventures were what ensured Argentina its independence

Mexican Liberals

Liberals... advocated federalism, secularism, and the elimination of fueros. -From 1824 to 1836, the Mexican Republic was ruled by a series of weak & continually bankrupt governments.

Ethnic and Socionomic Divisions in Latin America

Mestizo=Spanish+Indiginous Mulatto=Creole+black . Peninsulares were settlers born in Iberia. They dominated colonial life in Spanish/Portuguese America. They owned enormous estates, controlled mining and trade, held the vast majority of high government offices and the high command of the army. They also held the highest positions in the Church. Creoles were those born in the Americas. Some were wealthy land-owners. Technically, "on paper", they were legally equal to Peninsulares, but in reality, they were considered inferior and could NOT hold high office. Likely to start revolutions Mestizo's bear brunt of the revolution . Mestizos and Mulatos were barred from the highest positions in Latin American society. Nevertheless, they made up most of the population in many Latin American communities and held a wide range of jobs including... farmers, lawyers, merchants and soldiers. 4. Native Americans and African slaves were at the bottom of the class structure. In many areas, they formed the majority of the population, but had no real power.

Carranza

Mexican President 1917-1920

Madero

Mexican Revolution... This 'Revolution' started in 1910, with the uprising led by Francisco I. Madero that ousted Porfirio Díaz from power. It lasted for the better part of a decade until around 1920 Francisco I. Madero would assume the presidency in 1911 but would be assassinated in 1913

Aztecs Geography

Mexico's central valley...Tenochtitlan=Mexico City

Central American Modern Stats

Modern statistics show... Nicaragua: About 80% of the population live in poverty. Most live on less than $2 per day. ...73% Roman Catholic & 15% Christian. Guatemala: Around 56% of the population live in poverty (by Third World standards). ...50-60% Roman Catholic & 30-40% Christian. Panama: About 30% of the population live in poverty (by Third World standards). ---The Panamanian economy has been among the fastest growing and best managed in Latin America. ...75% Roman Catholics & 17% Christian. El Salvador: Around 37% live in poverty (by Third World standards). ...52% Roman Catholic & 27% Christian. Costa Rica: Roughly 23% live in poverty (by Third World standards). ...71% Roman Catholic & 14% Christian. Honduras: About 50% live in poverty (by Third World standards). ...47% Roman Catholic & 36% Christian.

Imperialism in Latin America

Mostly spanish control Latin America mostly due to the line of demarkcation Spain emerges as one of the of most powerful nations in the world Slows down when they lost ships in the Armada of 1500's, 1600's belong to France Spain makes a bit of a come back in 1700's 1700's belonged to Britain France takes over Iberian pennisunuala during Napoleoninc war Viceroys set up throughout Latin America , and governors

What was the Pastry War of 1838-1839 & how did it change Santa Anna's life

NEED TO GET

What happened to Santa Anna's Leg

NEED TO GET ANSWERS....Now in guards museum in Illinois...lost his leg when various European powers came to Mexico to collect debts. Then had wooden leg, During a battle, in haste he left his wooden leg behind. Then an Illinois Regiment fighting in the Mexican American War stole his leg and kept it in a museum

Ferdinand VII Deposed in 1808

Napoleon doesn't trust Ferdinant VII, throught he would make a deal with British, exiles Ferdinand Napoleon puts Josheph Bonaparte on the throne of Spain, double french soldiers in Spain, ousted out of the country through British warfare, ferdidnand regains throne

New Granada

New viceroyalties developed such as... 1717 - New Granada (modern day Panama, Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador). (forms Grand Colombia, doesn't stay that way though) Panama remains under control of colombia

End of Mexican American War

Once the Americans captured Mexico City and secured occupational control over most of Mexico (by October 1847), the war was basically over. In those final months though (Oct. 1847 - Feb. 1848), only a few minor skirmishes occurred. *The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and results... The war formally ended in Feb. 1848 with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. What was discussed and accomplished? The Mexican Government accepted total defeat and unconditionally surrendered to the United States. In return, the 'Mexican Cession' (522,568 sq. miles of land) was handed over to the U.S. ...More than 40% of Mexico's pre-war terrain. ...Sadly for Mexico, many parts of this huge land-loss would become U.S. mining bastions & agricultural havens.

The Guatemalan coup d'état of 1954

Operation PBSUCCESS)... was a covert operation organized by the United States 'Central Intelligence' Agency (CIA) to overthrow Jacobo Arbenz Guzmán, the democratically elected President of Guatemala. Why did this happen? Result?... Arbenz was replaced by a 'military junta' headed by Colonel Carlos Castillo. After the campaign, the CIA sent a handful of agents to Guatemala in order to gather and analyze government documents that would, amongst other things, find evidence that would support the CIA's belief that Guatemala was a rising Soviet 'puppet state', in an operation that was known as Operation PBHISTORY. Despite amassing well over 150,000 pages, they found very little to substantiate the key premise of the invasion.

Central American Civil War

Optimistic 'Liberals' invisioned a day when the Central American nation would develop into a modern 'democratic' country that would become extremely wealthy via tremendous trade that would cross through it from the Atlantic & Pacific oceans. ...Even the national flag was designed to represent "the land between two oceans." Nonetheless, nationalistic movements grew within the states. Civil War was brewing!!! In November 1838, Honduras separated from the federation. By 1840 all of the Federation's state's had secured their independence & The United Provinces of Central America was officially dissolved.

Attempts to reunite Central America

Over the next 80 years, there would be a number of attempts to reunite Central America, but none of them lasted for very long: The first attempt was in 1842 by Francisco Morazán to develop a 'confederate' nation/union of Central American countries. In the process, he was quickly captured and executed. A second attempt was made 1852, when El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua created a Federation of Central America. However, nationalist faction interests kept this from lasting longer than month (Oct. - Nov.). In the 1880s Guatemalan President Justo Rufino Barrios attempted to reunite the Central American nations by force of arms... but was killed in the process. A third union of Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador as the Greater Republic of Central America (1896 to 1898). The last attempt occurred between June 1921 and January 1922 when El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras formed a (second) Federation of Central America. ...This was doomed from the start & short lived due to poor provisional organization.

Modern Mexican Trivia

Population... 120 million -Ethnic groups... 65% Mestizo 18% Amerindian, 16% White 1% Other groups s/a Blacks & Asians -Income median... $6,000 per year. However, around 70% of all people in Mexico (young & old) make $5 or less in a given day. By 2010... Around 10% of the population were wealthy, 35% middle class & 55% poor. -Literacy rate: By the late 1950s only 59% of the population knew how to read and write. ...In the 2013 91% were literate.

Fueros

Privileges granted by the leadership to members of the upper classes

Texas Independence

Santa Anna's efforts to assert Mexican government authority & 'reforms' over Anglo-American settlements in Texas led to its "secession" from Mexico in 1835. Excesses committed by the Mexican expedition against Texan garrisons at the Alamo and Goliad provoked strong anti-Mexican sentiment in the United States & increased U.S. public support for Texan independence. In April 1836, Texan forces defeated and captured Santa Anna during the Battle of San Jacinto. During a brief captivity, Santa Ana signed the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texan independence from Mexico. What controversy followed?-US claiming Texas territory Why did Texas flag have 1824? That's when they stood up against the reforms of Santa Anna

Central American Parliament

Since 1991, a Central American Parliament (CAP) has operated, as a purely 'advisory body' for Central America during times of need. This regional parliament, seats deputies from the four other former members of The United Provinces of Central America, as well as from Panama and the Dominican Republic.

Improvements for Latin America in 1700's

Some reforms kick in following 1713 Philip V Mining becomes more efficient again Spanish navy is built back up Spain becomes wealthy country again Pirate industry kicks in Sugar industry boom, tobacco industry boom, coffee industry boom

Football Wars and El Salvador Civil War

The 'CACM' project was an immediate economic success, but was abandoned after the brief 1969 "Football War" between El Salvador and Honduras. Why did it occur Why did football war occur-two countries were trying to get into the world cup, and riots started to occur during second round, it was an economic war....El Salvador invades Honduras El Salvador Civil War-feeling effects of Football war, leftsts regime trying to take over current government, guerilla warfare occuring, sovietests and chinese back up leftists, US and Israel backs up militant government In the end of the Civil War, the the leftists won. 75,000 dies

Aztecs

The Aztec Empire (1300s - 1500s)... By the 1300s, a nomadic tribe called the Aztecs came to Mexico from the dry lands of the north. In 1325, the Aztecs built the village of Tenochtitlan (Teh-NAWCH-teet-lahn) which existed in what is now modern-day Mexico City. Farms in Aztec Mexico were very productive. Fertilizers made up of decaying plants and dead animals enriched the soils causing farmers to harvest crops 3X a year. They grew... corn, beans, squash, tomatoes and peppers. Through wars, the Aztecs expanded into a large empire that consisted of much of central Mexico. The emperor had 'absolute authority'. His word was law! Nobles and priests removed their rich ornaments when called into his presence and lowered their eyes. If they didn't, they could be put to death. The Aztecs worshiped many gods. Religious ceremonies at temples were held daily in front of large crowds. Varying offerings were made to the sun god such as... In time, human sacrifices to the gods became frequent and was considered an honor to those that would volunteer. Discuss... The Aztecs developed their own writing system that consisted of pictures and symbols instead of letters. All Aztec children had to attend school. Both boys and girls had to learn how to read and write, correctly use medicines, compose poetry and debate. Education made it possible for a young man from the lower classes to become a high-ranking government official.

The Federal Republic of Central America-Nation of Central America

The Federal Republic of Central America consisted of the states of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. While the roots of the 'Nation of Central America' date back to 1821, nationality did not finalize until 1823. Its capitals were Guatemala City (1823-1834) and San Salvador (1834-1838). ...For most of this time, Francisco Morazán of Honduras served as president.

Vicente Fox Quesada

The July 1997 midterm elections left the PRI with a minority of seats in the Chamber of Deputies (the lower house of Congress). As a result, this expanded opposition control of state governorships, and gave the 'left-wing' Party of the Democratic Revolution (Partido de la Revolución Democrática—PRD) control of Mexico City's government. Meanwhile, on the Federal level, the various opposition parties working against the PRI continued to gain momentum. In the Sept. 2000 general & presidential elections. ...The "Conservative" National Action Party or 'Partido Acción Nacional' (PAN) candidate, Vicente Fox Quesada, won a historic presidential race, becoming the first opposition head of state since the early 20th Century. In 2006, one of Fox's cabinet members, Felipe Calderón, would suceed him as president. However, a PRI member, Enrique Peña Nieto, gained the presidency in 2012.

Mayans

The Maya Civilization (around 300 - 800 AD)... Maya civilization grew up around large religious centers that eventually became thriving city-states with thousands of inhabitants. 'Absolute rulers' headed each city-state in Mayan Society. They went by the title "True Man". Archaeological evidence suggests that Mayan city-states were often at war with each other apparently for the sake of extending personal holdings. The Mayas were polytheistic. Their priests were very powerful not only as religious figures but also as political leaders. Prisoners of war were either enslaved or sacrificed to the gods. The Mayas developed a system of wide paved roads. The Mayans constructed huge temples and palaces in places such as the City of Palenque. Decline of the Mayas... Between 850 - 950, the great Maya centers were abandoned one by one. But, the Mayas did NOT move away... their descendants still lived on in the same areas... yet their civilization collapsed. No one is sure why this happened

Brazil's foundation

The Treaty of Tordesillas (1494s) paved the way for Pedro Alvares Cabral, a Portuguese sea captain, to land in Brazil (1500) & claim it for the Portuguese Crown. There was NO native civilization thriving in Brazil that was of the caliber of the Incan or Aztec Empires. ...Therefore, colonizing Brazil was a comparatively easy, BUT proved to be a slow nonetheless. Why? ...Discuss. Why? Discuss?-No massive indigenous empires in Brazil, slower various kings on portugual to lure in colonials, not many portugeese wanted to come because they didn't realize how rich in natural resources Brazil was An estimated 2,000 indigenous nations and tribes had existed in the 16th century Brazil. However, many in these groups died off as a consequence of the European settlement. ...The survivors were assimilated into the Brazilian population. Indigenous numbers have thus declined from around 8 million during the early colonial period to a little over 800,000 today. Less than 200 tribal groups remain. -As of 2010, Brazil's popstiulation had evolved into a society of about 48% White, 43% Pardo (mestiozos), 8% Black and .5% Amerindian.

Battle of San Jacinto

The aftermath of The Battle of San Jacinto led to the Treaties of Velasco costing Mexico nearly 390,000 square miles of territory . In April 1836, Texan forces defeated and captured Santa Anna during the Battle of San Jacinto. During a brief captivity, Santa Ana signed the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texan independence from Mexico. ---What controversy followed -US claiming Texas territory Why did Texas flag have 1824? That's when they stood up against the reforms of Santa Anna

Treaty of Velasco

The aftermath of The Battle of San Jacinto led to the Treaties of Velasco costing Mexico nearly 390,000 square miles of territory. In April 1836, Texan forces defeated and captured Santa Anna during the Battle of San Jacinto. During a brief captivity, Santa Ana signed the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texan independence from Mexico.

Revolution in South America

The early Independence Movements owed their origins to events in Europe. ...None brought cataclysmic changes in the established social order in Latin America. ...Far reaching administrative & political changes instigated by the new royal dynasty in Spain (The Bourbon Family 1713-1808) wound up empowering the monarchy and pensuleres but weakened the creoles and meztizos Charles III (reigned 1759 - 1788)-turned things arond but practiced absolute monarchy

Official Mexican Independence: Guadalupe Victoria and Vicente Guerrero

The rebellion continued, and two new leaders came to prominence: Vicente Guerrero (1782 - 1831) and Guadalupe Victoria (1786 - 1843)... both of whom commanded large armies in the south and south-central parts of Mexico. In 1820, the Spanish sent out a large army to quash the rebellion once and for all. However, between Creole victories and political distress back in Spain, King Ferdinand VII formally recognized Mexico's independence on Aug. 24, 1821

Central American Independence

The following general study will pertain to those Central American countries ranging from Guatemala - Panama. In 1811, in reaction to events in the 'Peninsular War' & partly due to the influence of prior rebellious events in Mexico, the first movement toward independence from Spain occurred in El Salvador, and again in 1814 after the restoration of Ferdinand VII to the throne. However, Spanish forces easily suppressed both of these revolts. As a result, Spain tried to quickly restore tranquility to this area of Central America & make the 'Criollos' feel more 'franchised' by allowing them to elect seven representatives to the Cádiz Cortes (Spanish National Assembly) in addition to forming a locally-elected Provincial Deputation. But in the long run, these measures did NOT satisfy the ambitous that longed for complete autonomy. But this did not satisfy the ambitous that longed for complete autonomy. On September 15, 1821, a congress of Central American Criollos declared their independence from Spain. ...This date is still viewed as the 'Independence Day' by most Central American nations. This phase of freedom did NOT last long. ...In January 1822, 'Conservative' leaders in Guatemala welcomed annexation to the Mexican Empire under Agustín de Iturbide (Augustine I). Naturally Central American 'Liberals' objected to this, but an army from Mexico under General Vicente Filisola occupied Guatemala City and crushed dissenting factions. A year later (1823) when Mexico became a republic, it acknowledged Central America's right to determine its own destiny. ...On July 1, 1823, the Congress of Central America declared absolute independence from Spain & Mexico and any other foreign nation. Thus, a republican system of government was immediately established & The United Provinces of Central America or 'The Federal Republic of Central America' was born!!! ...Its constitution was ratified in 1824 & its 'federal' system was largely modeled after the United States of America.

Latin America Name Origin: Chevilar

The notion that a part of the Americas has a cultural or racial connection with all 'Romance' cultures can be traced back to the 1830s and is largely credited to the writings of Michel Chevalier (a French Statesman). Chevalier proposed the concept that the central & southern part of the Americas were inhabited by people of a "Latin race." ...Therefore, it had reason to ally itself with "Latin Europe" that had been in a struggle with "Teutonic" Europe, "Anglo-Saxon" America and "Slavic" Europe. -Chevalier's idea was later taken up by Latin American intellectuals and political leaders of the mid & late 19th Century (mid-late 1800s), who (in that era) no longer wanted to look to Spain or Portugal as cultural models, but more so to France. -The actual term "Latin America" was first used in France under Napoleon III (r. 1852-1870) and played a role in his campaign to imply cultural "kinship" with France. He hoped to transform France into a cultural/political leader over "Latin America

Mexican American War Stats

The war cost the U.S. Govt. $15 million. BUT cost Mexico $50 million!!! At least 13,000 Americans died during the conflict. Studies suggest that around 16,000 to as much as 50,000 Mexicans died!!!

Mexican Revolution

This 'Revolution' started in 1910, with the uprising led by Francisco I. Madero that ousted Porfirio Díaz from power. It lasted for the better part of a decade until around 1920. Over time, the Revolution changed from a revolt against the established order to a multi-sided Civil War with frequently shifting power struggles. Francisco I. Madero would assume the presidency in 1911 but would be assassinated in 1913. Victoriano Huerta assumed power in February 1913. His rule was short-lived & due to infighting. ...Huerta resigned in July 1914 By 1914 opposing forces formed & the bloodshed reached new heights as continued infighting occurred among rival bands loosely allied with Venustiano Carranza & Francisco "Pancho" Villa. U.S. support for Carranza prompted Villa to retaliate by raiding several U.S. border towns. ...In response, the United States dispatched troops under General John J. Pershing on an unsuccessful expedition into northern Mexico to either kill or capture Villa. Discuss... What happened to Villa?...

Mexico's Economy

Through the years, Mexico has become a noteworthy producer & exporter of a variety of products. Despite its wealth in natural resources & productivity, the socio-economic class system has remained pretty stagnant. ...The poverty level remains high. ECONOMIC TRIVIA: Some fast-growing exports from Mexico to the United States & other countries include sugar, gold, silver, zinc, mercury and tin. Other exports include crude oil, cars and car parts, video equipment and computers. Mexico is also an exporter of a wide variety of food products including meat, cheese, eggs, seafood and a variety of vegetables. Moreover, Mexico is a leading producer of coffee, corn, and oranges. ***Currently, Mexico is the world's 5th largest oil producer

Mexican Conservatives

Throughout the early republic period on Mexico, clashes between the 'Conservative' & 'Liberal' parties dominated politics. -Conservatives... advocated a centralized 'nationalistic' republic governed from Mexico City and the continuation of clerical and military "fueros" (privileges granted by the leadership to members of the 'upper classes'). They also tended to have the support of the Roman Catholic Church and much of the army.

Huerta

Victoriano Huerta assumed power in February 1913. His rule was short-lived & due to infighting. ...Huerta resigned in July 1914

Slavery in Latin America

When indengnous slaves died, Spanish replaced labor with slaves from Africa 90 percent of western slave trade went to Latin America Slaves in Latin America had poorer treatment than US colonial slaves Slaves came from African Chieftains that were sold to Spanish and Portuguese Life expectancy of male slave in Cuba 10 years Worked 12 hours a day, 7 days a week Mid 1700's: Catholic policy goes away and encourages slave pro-creation Females come over, slaves have families Life expectancy grows to 15-20 years

Cuban Independence: Jose Marti

Why did Cuba wait so long to rebel?-Cuba was considered a wealthier and valuable colony....sugar cane, mining. Some lessons were learned by the Spanish crown, they started to make reforms to appease cuba, it has some autonomy, creoles could become high ranking leaders, careful with the distribution of wealth What were causes of the rebellion? They were already practicing some autonomy, American investments in Cuba, Jose Marti-Main rebel, USS maine explosion-Spanish were blamed for the USS exploding, in Havanna Harbor, there to monitor cuba. It was believed to be mined. Justification to go to war, fought alonside the rebels. Cuba became a US protectorite US would do this for business interests, they also didn't believe Cuba was ready for full autonomy The Spanish-American (Cuban) War was fought from Feb. 1898 - Aug. 1898... when an armistice was signed.

Santa Anna and Reforms

Within months after his imperial rule began, Iturbide's regime was bankrupt and losing the support of the "criollo" elite. In 1823, Iturbide was overthrown by republican forces under the command of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. ...The Mexican Empire was dissolved when the 'United Provinces of Central America' declared their independence in July 1823. General Santa Anna and his allies fashioned a centralized republic that held power from 1836 to 1855. ...Although nominally a liberal... in reality, Santa Anna was a 'nationalist'. Santa Anna formed a new Catholic, centralist, conservative government which replaced the 1824 Constitution with a new ruling document known as the "Siete Leyes" ("The Seven Laws") of 1835. Thus, Santa Anna began centralizing power. The regime became a dictatorship backed by the military Reforms include ending slavery Europeans bet on Mexico because they had the larger army, well-equipped, European officers and equipment were used by the Mexicans, Why did Texas flag have 1824? That's when they stood up against the reforms of Santa Anna

Mayan Civilization Geography

Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico), Southern Mexico and most of present day Guatemala.