REBELIONES Y CONSPIRACIONES CRIOLLAS [ACTUALIZADO 2017]

Rebellions and Conspiracies in Peru (1808-1816)

Overview of the Historical Context

• The period between 1808 and 1816 saw significant rebellions and conspiracies in Latin America, while Peru experienced strict royalist control that hindered early separatist movements.

Governance under José Fernando de Abascal

• José Fernando de Abascal governed the Viceroyalty of Peru with conservative ideas, opposing liberal reforms from Cádiz and suppressing local juntas.

• Abascal's regime was characterized by military dissolution of juntas except for the United Provinces of Río de la Plata.

Military Strengthening Initiatives

• A key priority for Abascal was to enhance military power through improved fortifications in Lima and increased Spanish officer presence, funded by new taxes.

• Despite these efforts, he could not dismantle the independent government established by the United Provinces of Río de la Plata since 1810.

Conspiracies and Rebellions in Lima

• Intellectual figures like Hipólito Unanue were involved in conspiracies against colonial rule; however, these did not evolve into a substantial separatist movement.

• The only notable separatist effort in Lima was led by Mateo and his brother, who attempted to form a junta but were ultimately captured.

Provincial Discontent and Armed Rebellions

• Outside Lima, discontent against colonial rule intensified due to the crisis in Spain, leading to armed uprisings that were harshly suppressed by Abascal.

• Two significant rebellions occurred: one led by Francisco de Zela and another by Enrique Paisal involving criollos, mestizos, and indigenous support.

Major Insurgent Movements (1814–1815)

• The large-scale rebellion known as "La Gran Rebelión" emerged between 1814–1815 under leaders José Vicente Angulo and Mariano Angulo.