LA GUERRA DE INDEPENDENCIA ESPAÑOLA ⚔️ (1808-1814) | Resumen fundamental del conflicto

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The discussion revolves around artistic advice given to represent a Spanish scene in a painting, focusing on portraying specific elements accurately.

Artistic Representation Advice

• Emphasize the grandeur of the Spanish figure being executed, making them appear larger than life.

• French characters should be depicted as somewhat villainous but not excessively so, maintaining a balance.

• Use lighting contrasts to symbolize duality, such as showing the French executing while light illuminates the Spaniards.

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The narrative transitions into historical events surrounding Spain during Carlos IV's reign and its involvement in wars against France.

Historical Context: Carlos IV's Reign

• In 1788, Carlos IV ascends to the Spanish throne after his predecessor's death, inheriting an absolute monarchy.

• Spain engages in wars against France from 1789 to 1796 due to fears of revolutionary ideas spreading post-French Revolution.

• Manuel Godoy emerges as a key figure under Carlos IV, influencing Spanish politics and aligning with France against England.

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The focus shifts towards alliances between Spain and France leading up to significant naval battles and their repercussions.

Alliances and Naval Battles

• Spain aligns with France against England, resulting in conflicts like the War of the Oranges (1801).

• The Battle of Trafalgar (1805) leads to a disastrous defeat for Spain, impacting its economy and colonial control.

La Guerra de la Independencia Española

This section discusses the events surrounding the Spanish War of Independence, starting with the uprising of the Spanish people against French troops in Madrid on May 2, 1808, following the abdication of King Charles IV.

Abdication of King Charles IV and Uprising in Madrid

• The abdication of King Charles IV leads to the uprising of the Spanish people in Madrid on May 2, 1808, against French troops trying to take the royal family out of Spain.

• The Spanish people eventually expel Napoleon's troops from the peninsula after four years, with these events originating at Puerta del Sol in Madrid.

• Goya magnificently portrays the subsequent executions following this uprising while detailing political maneuvers involving King Charles IV and Napoleon.

Abdications of Bayonne and Power Struggles

• Napoleon orchestrates a power vacuum through manipulative tactics like convincing King Charles IV to cede power and later persuading Ferdinand VII that he would inherit the Spanish throne.

• By creating a void in leadership through abdications, Napoleon removes both Spanish kings from power to install his brother Joseph Bonaparte as king.

Formation of Central Junta and Battle of Bailén

• The Central Junta emerges post-abdications to govern Spain amidst French advances, culminating in a significant victory for Spain at the Battle of Bailén on July 19, 1808.

• The defeat at Bailén forces Napoleon to personally lead French forces into Spain as resistance intensifies against Joseph Bonaparte's rule.

The Constitution of 1812 and Napoleonic Wars

This segment delves into events surrounding Cádiz during 1812 when Cortes convened and promulgated the Constitution. It also explores how Napoleonic campaigns influenced European dynamics.

Resistance in Cádiz and Constitution Promulgation

• Due to its insular nature, Cádiz becomes a refuge for those opposing Napoleon's rule; here, Cortes convene leading to the enactment of the Constitution of 1812.

• The year 1811 marks a turning point as Napoleon faces challenges due to intensified English support for Spanish resistance efforts alongside guerrilla warfare strategies.

Impact of Russian Campaign on Napoleonic Wars

• Napoleon's ambitious Russian campaign alters European dynamics significantly by diverting resources away from Spain towards Russia.

• Spanish guerrilla warfare tactics disrupt French operations while allies intensify defense efforts amid shifting tides within Napoleonic conflicts.

End of Napoleonic Era: Return of Ferdinand VII

This part concludes with Ferdinand VII reclaiming his throne in Spain after Napoleon's retreat post-Leipzig battle. It highlights unity among Spaniards during years-long struggles against France.

Fall of Napoleon and Return of Ferdinand VII

• Following defeats in Russia and Leipzig battle against other European powers, Napoleon withdraws from Spain in 1814 allowing Ferdinand VII's return as "the Desired King."

Conclusion