Question

What role did the French Revolution play in sparking independence movements in the Spanish colonies of the Americas.

Answer 1

The French Revolution contributed to problems in Spain, weakening it, thus opening the terrain for independence movements in the Americas.

Explanation:

The French Revolution led to the creation of new and very powerful France, led by Napoleon Bonaparte. France started offensive in Europe, and one of the countries that came under attack was Spain.

In order to protect itself, Spain concentrated most of its military in its homeland, leaving its colonies largely unprotected. The people already wanted independence, and they felt that this was the right moment, as the Spanish troops were too weak and too dispersed. The end result was large scale independence movements which led to the creation of numerous countries in the Americas.