Semana 18: Guerra Con España Y Fin de La Prosperidad Contexto Económico Peruano
Semana 18: Guerra Con España Y Fin de La Prosperidad Contexto Económico Peruano
Spain's attempts to regain control over Peru led to significant socio-political consequences. These include heightened nationalism and unity among Latin American states against foreign aggression, as evidenced by the formation of the Cuádruple Alianza . Domestically, it fueled political instability in Peru, contributing to President Pezet's downfall and the rise of Mariano Ignacio Prado through revolt . This resistance demonstrated the colonial countries' diplomatic prowess and resolve against neocolonialism, strengthening their sovereignty .
The Spanish occupation of the Chincha Islands during the conflict interrupted Peru's primary revenue source: guano exports. This disruption significantly impaired the financial resources needed to sustain the war effort and contributed to Peru's indebtedness due to their procurement of modern naval vessels . In the long run, this interruption weakened the Peruvian economy, emphasizing the need for diversification of income sources and more robust economic policies to avoid over-reliance on single commodities .
The Treaty of Vivanco-Pareja, signed by President Pezet, caused significant political upheaval in Peru. It involved recognizing and paying Spain for debts related to independence, further assigning special privileges to Spanish envoys, which stoked national indignation. Criticism from figures like Ramón Castilla led to political unrest, eventually sparking a rebellion led by Mariano Ignacio Prado, causing Pezet's downfall and ushering in Prado's dictatorial rule .
Public opposition to the Treaty Vivanco-Pareja arose from its perceived concessions to Spanish interests, including monetary indemnities and debt acceptance that undermined Peru's sovereignty. This sparked widespread national resentment, fostering a hostile environment for President Pezet. The ensuing political instability was exploited by Mariano Ignacio Prado, whose leadership of a rebellion culminated in Pezet's inability to maintain power, leading to his asylum and the establishment of a dictatorial government by Prado .
Mariano Ignacio Prado was instrumental in Peru's resistance against Spain by leading a rebellion against President Pezet's administration due to dissatisfaction with the Treaty Vivanco-Pareja . His leadership in the rebel forces allowed him to capitalize on public discontent, facilitating Pezet's downfall and leading to his rise as the head of a dictatorial government. Prado's actions reflect the internal political shifts driven by the nationalistic fervor against Spanish dominance .
The Cuádruple Alianza, comprising Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and Ecuador, was pivotal in opposing Spain's neocolonial ambitions. By uniting militarily, these countries not only defended against Spanish aggression but also reinforced their sovereignty and ability to resist European interventionist policies, thus consolidating Latin America's independence .
The Battle of Dos de Mayo was crucial for Peru's geopolitical stance as it marked a prominent military victory that symbolized the exclusion of Spanish influence and affirmed perpetual independence from colonial rule. This victory not only ended direct hostilities with Spain but also bolstered Peru's reputation as a resilient power in Latin America, encouraging other nations to combat European interventionism and consolidating regional autonomy . The decisive victory instilled a sense of national pride and strengthened regional solidarity, foreshadowing the diplomatic influence Latin American countries would wield in future adversities .
The international political context at the time was characterized by European powers vying for economic influence over Latin American resources. Spain's desire to recover its former economic status prompted by its decline post-independence wars, coupled with its interests in regions such as Gibraltar, led it to target rich ex-colonies like Peru to regain economic footholds. The Talambo incident provided a convenient pretext under these geopolitical tensions for Spain to declare war on Peru .
The naval battles played a crucial role in the war against Spain by disrupting Spanish naval operations. The Battle of Abtao demonstrated effective allied resistance, with Peru and Chile managing to stave off a superior Spanish fleet, leading to the suicide of Spanish commander Pareja . The subsequent Battle of Dos de Mayo, despite an inferior number of vessels, marked a decisive victory for Peru, prompting the Spanish retreat, which symbolically affirmed Peru's independence and emboldened a sense of patriotism among Latin American countries .
Foreign powers, particularly France, England, and the United States, were highly interested in Peru due to its rich resources and the low cost of obtaining raw materials, leading to significant investment by their bourgeoisie . This foreign economic interest provoked Spain's jealousy as it viewed these markets as part of its former colonial sphere, driving its desire to reassert control over its ex-colony, Peru .