About this video

• Video Title: La independencia de Centroamérica
• Channel: TV UNAH
• Speakers: Frank (host), Jorge Amaya (historian)
• Duration: 00:33:58

Overview

This video explores the historical context, causes, and key events leading to the independence of Central America from Spanish rule. It discusses the influence of Enlightenment ideas, Bourbon reforms, and the Mexican War of Independence, highlighting the specific events in various Central American provinces and the roles of key figures like José Cecilio del Valle and Francisco Morazán.

Key takeaways

• The independence of Central America was a complex process influenced by internal factors like the discontent of Criollos due to Bourbon reforms and external factors like the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, and the US independence.
• Mexico's independence, particularly the radical phase initiated by Miguel Hidalgo and the later, more peaceful transition under Iturbide, significantly influenced Central America's own independence movement.
• While the official declaration of independence for Central America occurred on September 15, 1821, it was a relatively short-lived independence, as the region was annexed by the Mexican Empire in January 1822.
• The "second and true independence" is considered to be the declaration by the Congress in Guatemala on July 1, 1823, which established the Federal Republic of Central America.
• The Catholic Church played a divided role: the hierarchy generally sided with conservative powers, while the lower clergy and many mestizo and mulato priests were often radical and supported independence movements.
• Francisco Morazán emerged as a key figure in the fight for Central American independence, becoming president of the Federal Republic in 1830 and leading the region towards a more unified and independent future.