Episodio 02: Tiempo de caudillos (1820-1835) - Ver La Historia
Anarchy and Political Crime in Early History
The Context of Internal Conflicts
- The chapter begins with a backdrop of anarchy, transitioning into a political crime, highlighting the tumultuous period following the fall of the viceroyalty.
- Internal conflicts arise among conservatives, liberals, landowners, and merchants as they vie for control over the nation’s direction post-viceroyalty.
The Battle of Cepeda
- López and Ramírez lead federal forces against Buenos Aires' centralist troops during the Battle of Cepeda, marking a significant shift in power dynamics.
- Their victory is attributed to their combination of economic power and military experience, essential for establishing a strong army.
Aftermath and Fragmentation
- Following their win at Cepeda, López and Ramírez dismantle the existing government structures in Buenos Aires, leading to disarray as provinces become autonomous states.
- A divide emerges between those advocating for provincial autonomy versus those desiring a return to centralized order; fear among Buenos Aires merchants drives them to seek stability.
Emergence of Political Parties
- In response to chaos, factions unite under Bernardino Rivadavia's leadership within the Order Party to protect Buenos Aires' interests amidst provincial fragmentation.
- Tensions rise as López fears betrayal from Buenos Aires after failed treaty compliance; he launches an attack on the city.
Governance Changes in Buenos Aires
- Martín Rodríguez becomes governor amid this crisis; he appoints Rivadavia as Minister of Government and Foreign Relations.
- Rivadavia aims to centralize governance by enhancing administrative efficiency while promoting Buenos Aires’ economic interests through monopolistic practices.
Treaties and Alliances
- Rodríguez negotiates peace with López through the Treaty of Venegas, which acknowledges Buenos Aires' supremacy but requires López's cooperation for regional stability.
- Juan Manuel de Rosas plays a crucial role by providing resources to ensure compliance with the treaty terms from López.
Conflict Between Allies
- Tensions escalate when Ramírez seeks revenge against López after being sidelined in negotiations; this leads him into conflict with López’s forces.
- Despite initial successes in battle alongside his partner Delfina, Ramírez faces defeat and retreats towards Chaco after losing key support.
Tragic Outcomes
- In a dramatic turn during rescue efforts for Delfina, Ramírez is fatally wounded. His death symbolizes both personal loss and broader political turmoil.
Rivadavia's Vision for Modernization
Rivadavia's Liberal Reforms and Their Consequences
Conflict with the Catholic Church
- Rivadavia's series of liberal reforms confronts the Catholic Church, emphasizing increased state involvement in education, charity, and burial services—areas previously under church control.
Armed Conspiracy Against Reforms
- In 1823, a conspiracy led by lawyer Juan Gregorio de Tagle arises against Rivadavia's reforms but is swiftly suppressed.
Public Works and Financial Mismanagement
- Rivadavia seeks a £1 million loan from Baring Brothers for public works; however, the terms are unfavorable. After deductions, only £560,000 reaches Buenos Aires.
- The remaining funds are squandered without any construction from the original public works plan. This loan marks the beginning of Argentina's external debt, which won't be fully repaid until 1904.
Land Leasing System Implementation
- To manage state lands financially, Rivadavia introduces a system of emphyteusis (long-term lease), allowing private individuals to rent state land at low rates that often go unpaid.
- As a result, 2,538 owners acquire approximately 8.5 million hectares of productive land—most benefiting those aligned with Rivadavia’s liberal agenda.
Constitutional Assembly and Political Tensions
- By 1824, the ruling class gathers enough support to convene a constituent congress composed of provincial representatives. Initial sessions are cooperative but soon devolve into heated debates between unitarians and federals over national organization.
Military Actions and Congressional Decisions
- While congressional discussions unfold, 33 patriots depart Buenos Aires for Montevideo to reclaim territory taken by Brazil. They succeed in their mission.
- Following this victory, Congress approves the incorporation of Eastern Province while Brazil declares war in response.
Establishment of Centralized Government
- After extensive sessions, Congress adopts a centralist constitution and elects Rivadavia as Argentina’s first president.
- A month later, Buenos Aires is declared the capital; however, discontent among federal provinces grows due to centralized policies.
Rising Opposition and Political Instability
- Despite having a president and constitution in place by late 1826—a unitarist document rejected by all provinces—the nation remains divided.
Treaty Attempts and Provincial Revolts
- Amid ongoing conflict with Brazil, Rivadavia attempts to negotiate peace by conceding Eastern lands to Brazil. This action incites further unrest among provinces like Córdoba and Santa Fe.
Facundo Quiroga's Rebellion
- Juan Facundo Quiroga leads revolts against Rivadavia’s government within four months rallying five provinces against him after initially being an ally.
Fall from Power
- Discontent culminates as powerful hacendado Juan Manuel de Rosas withdraws support from Rivadavia. Unable to maintain authority amidst growing opposition forces him to resign.
Transition of Power
- Upon resignation acceptance framed as beneficial for the nation’s future; he departs with his iconic chair—symbolizing his unique presidency—and leaves power vacated for provincial autonomy under Manuel Dorrego in Buenos Aires.
The Political Turmoil in Buenos Aires
The Leadership of Manuel Dorrego
- Manuel Dorrego is portrayed as a leader concerned with the needs of the people, implementing measures that benefit the popular sectors, such as granting amnesty to deserters and suspending forced recruitment.
The War with Brazil and Its Consequences
- The ongoing war with Brazil leads to significant resource loss and public discontent, prompting Dorrego to sign a peace treaty that allows for the independence of Banda Oriental.
- Despite winning the war, Dorrego faces consequences due to a previous treacherous agreement signed by Minister José García, which ceded Banda Oriental to Brazil.
The Downfall of Dorrego
- Upon returning from combat, Dorrego receives mixed reactions; while he has popular support, he must remain vigilant against unitary military leaders seeking power.
- On December 1, 1828, Lavalle's troops revolt against Dorrego. He is captured and executed without trial or defense.
Aftermath of Dorrego's Execution
- Following his execution, there are debates about whether it was justifiable; this act ignites further unrest among the populace mourning their leader.
- The unitarians believe they have quelled federalism permanently but fail to foresee the backlash from Dorrego's brutal assassination.
Rise of Juan Manuel de Rosas
- To legitimize Lavalle’s dictatorship, elections are manipulated so only those deemed "decent" can vote.
- In late 1828, following widespread outrage over Dorrego's unjust death, Juan Manuel de Rosas emerges as a leader for revenge against Lavalle’s regime.
Consolidation of Power by Rosas
- Six months post-Dorrego’s execution, Rosas gains victory for federalists and is declared governor with extraordinary powers aimed at restoring order.
- While Rosas consolidates power in Buenos Aires with diverse support bases including elites and common folk alike, conflict continues in other provinces under General Paz’s leadership.
Federal Pact and Economic Challenges
- Rosas signs the Federal Pact with Santa Fe and Entre Ríos establishing provincial sovereignty while maintaining external relations through Buenos Aires.
The Historical Context of the Falkland Islands
Early Argentine Presence and British Interests
- In 1831, Governor Luis Vernet and a small group of Argentines establish productive activities in the Falkland Islands during a period when Juan Manuel de Rosas is not in power.
- The United Kingdom revives its strategic interest in the South Atlantic, seeking to establish a base near the Strait of Magellan, which is crucial for interoceanic navigation.
U.S. Involvement and British Occupation
- Following tensions, the English government, with U.S. support, occupies the islands in 1833, expelling Argentines and appointing a Royal Navy officer to govern.
- By 1841, Britain officially names a governor for the Falklands, solidifying their status as a British colony.
Internal Conflicts Among Federalists
Political Dynamics Under Rosas
- Facundo Quiroga takes control of La Rioja while pursuing his political agenda against Rosas' federalist forces.
- Despite initial setbacks against Quiroga's followers, Rosas maintains an ongoing relationship with him; their alliance fluctuates but never fully breaks.
Struggles for Power
- After defeating unitarios at Ciudadela and regaining control over national territory, federal leaders face challenges maintaining internal peace among themselves.
- While some leaders push for adherence to the federal pact and convening a constituent congress, Rosas convinces them that it’s not yet time.
The End of Rosas' First Governorship
Transition of Power
- After three years in power focused on avoiding civil war in Buenos Aires, Rosas declines re-election due to loss of extraordinary powers from the legislature.
- Juan Ramón Balcarce becomes governor but faces opposition from factions within federalism labeled by Rosas as "los cismáticos."
Military Campaign Against Indigenous Peoples
- During this period away from governance duties, Rosas leads military campaigns against indigenous groups to expand Buenos Aires’ borders using an army financed by local landowners.
Quiroga's Role Amidst Political Turmoil
Leadership Challenges
- While Rosas campaigns against indigenous peoples in early 1834, Quiroga emerges as a significant political figure leading rosista federals through societal changes.
Successes and Setbacks
- Quiroga experiences personal transformation amidst rising tensions within Buenos Aires’ federalist factions; however, conflicts soon arise again by late 1834.
The Political Landscape of 1834
Key Players: Roses vs. Quiroga
The Political Turmoil in Buenos Aires
Quiroga's Role and Challenges
- Quiroga is called to declare war on Buenos Aires, with requests for him to act as a mediator amidst rising tensions.
- Quiroga embarks northward in a carriage, suffering from severe rheumatic pain. Rosas offers protection during the campaign, but Quiroga declines, seeking only a letter of support for his mission.
- As he travels, Quiroga attempts to eliminate remaining unitary influences in the provinces while reaffirming his power; however, Rosas' promised letter never arrives.
Shifting Alliances and Governance
- Upon reaching the north, Quiroga faces an unexpected situation: the governor of Tucumán has been assassinated by locals. This prompts regional governors to unite and demand constitutional organization from Buenos Aires.
- Despite knowing it may displease Rosas, Quiroga signs an agreement advocating for national organization under a constitution.
Return to Buenos Aires and Rising Tensions
- After resolving northern conflicts, Quiroga heads back to Buenos Aires via Córdoba. He receives a delayed letter from Rosas criticizing federalism's chaotic nature due to lack of organized states.
The Aftermath of Violence
- The brutal death of Quiroga escalates hostilities and fears of civil war. On March 7, 1835, the legislature replaces Massa with Rosas as governor who consolidates executive, legislative, and judicial powers.
- Under Rosas’ renewed leadership, dissent becomes increasingly suppressed as he purges opponents deemed traitors or unitary sympathizers.
Federalism vs. Unitarism
- The dominance of the federal party is presented as a solution for Argentina’s struggles with unity versus division.