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SUCEDIÓ EN EL PERÚ - Independencia 4/4
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SUCEDIÓ EN EL PERÚ - Independencia 4/4

Proclamation of Independence in Peru

The Call for Independence

  • San Martín convenes a notable assembly at the cabildo (now Lima's municipality), where the independence was sworn on July 15, 1820.
  • Thousands signed the act of independence, including prominent figures like the Count of San Isidro and individuals from various social classes. The proclamation was scheduled for July 28, 1821.

San Martín's Vision for Governance

  • San Martín proposed a constitutional monarchy to appease the elite, distinguishing it from Spain’s monarchy by aiming for a parliamentary system similar to England's.
  • His goal was to unite different political forces under this new government structure.

The Declaration Ceremony

  • On July 28, 1821, in Plaza Mayor, San Martín declared Peru's independence with memorable words that resonate with many today.
  • He emphasized Peru as rich in history and part of the Spanish-American community but now sovereign.

Philosophical Influences

  • San Martín’s declaration reflects French Enlightenment ideals about nation-building through citizen participation, echoing thoughts from Montesquieu and Rousseau.
  • By invoking "the general will," he highlighted Peruvians' collective decision to separate from Spanish rule for justice and equity.

Religious Context and National Unity

  • Mentioning God in his speech validated existing religious beliefs while calling all Peruvians—regardless of ethnicity or economic status—to participate in building a free nation.
  • The ceremony symbolized unity among diverse groups who supported independence despite differing views on governance.

Aftermath and Significance

  • Celebrations continued after the proclamation; however, true liberation would not be achieved until December 9, 1824, following victory at Ayacucho.
  • The declaration marked an irreversible shift away from colonial power; it initiated military campaigns leading to broader regional independence efforts.

Understanding Independence as a Process

  • While July 28 is significant as a symbolic start of independence efforts in Lima, actual consolidation took three more years due to ongoing conflicts with royalist forces.