Latin American Revolutions- José de San Martín

José de San Martín (1778-1850)- At an early age he left his mother country to go study in Spain. Around 1808 San Martin joined the Spanish forces against the French. He participated in many battles. While doing this he started to become in contact with South American supporters of independence. From England he sailed to Buenos Aires and offered his services to modern day Argentina. He creates the Lautaro lodge, whose objective was to liberate South America of the Spanish. In 1813, Mounted Grenadiers fought and won their first combat against Spain. San Martin then took control of the North Army from Belgrano in 1814. Later on, San Martin figured out the only way to attack the center of the Spanish power (Lima city, in Peru) was to cross the Andes from Mendoza to Chile. Before doing this he insisted on having a declaration of Independence for the Argentine Republic. By a delay of disease, San Martin and his men set off on the Andes 1817. He fought the Spanish forces in many battles and then liberated Chile in 1818. Finally in 1821 San Martin reached the city of Lima and declared independence, and was appointed protector of Peru. Simon Bolívar took over the task of fully liberating Peru. San Matin eventually resided from his office. After his wife dying, and displeased by civil wars, him and his daughter went to France, and lived there until his death.

French Revolution (Entry Two)

Summary - The French Revolution is defined as the political upheaval of world importance that began in France in 1789. Inspired by the success of the American Revolution, French citizens overthrew the noble, ruling class and establish a democratic government. The French monarchy under Louis XVI was viewed as oppressive and corrupt and the social structure was rigid, meaning it did not allow for social mobility which eventually forced the people to demand change.


Answer: The French Revolution was a significant movement in history because it inspired other nations to stand up to what they believe in. Even though a ruler has all the power, he may be throne off his throne by the people. I dont think it was enterly a success because soon after Napoleon became an absolute ruler, while the people were oblivious. Also after that, absolute monarchy was put back in place as the government, which is what the people were fighting against in the beginning.

The Enlightenment (Entry One)

Summary- The Enlightenment was a philosophical movement of the 18Th century characterized by belief in the power of human reason and questioning authority. Many enlightenment philosophers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau published their ideas on government.

Answer: The Enlightent philosophers changed the thinking of the people forever. They learned to question authority and to not just do what a higher power tells them to do. After this, people stood up for what they believed in, even if the result was death. This lead to the French Revolution, consisting of revulting again King Louis XVI. The people learned to think for themselves and be there own person.