Historical Events tagged with "colonialism"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Bernardo O'Higgins Approves Chilean Independence

February 12th, 1818 207 years ago

Bernardo O'Higgins, the Supreme Director of Chile, formally approved the Chilean Declaration of Independence near Concepción. This significant milestone came during a time of ongoing conflict against Spanish colonial rule. The declaration embraced the ideals of sovereignty and self-governance, symbolizing Chile's aspirations for freedom. O'Higgins' leadership was pivotal in rallying support for the independence movement in the region, reflecting a broader trend in Latin America towards liberation from colonial dominance.

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Politics & Government

Simón Bolívar Becomes President of Venezuela

October 30th, 1817 207 years ago

In 1817, Simón Bolívar was appointed President of the Third Republic of Venezuela by the Congress of Angostura. This occurred during the Venezuelan War of Independence, a conflict aimed at liberating Venezuela from Spanish colonial rule. Bolívar's charismatic leadership and military prowess were crucial in rallying support against Spanish forces. His presidency was marked by efforts to establish a stable government amidst ongoing strife, as he sought to unify the fragmented republic and advance the cause of independence.

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Politics & Government

UK Annexion of Tristan da Cunha Archipelago

August 14th, 1816 208 years ago

In August 1816, the United Kingdom formally annexed the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, strategically positioning the islands under British authority. Located in the South Atlantic Ocean, this remote archipelago was administered from the Cape Colony in South Africa. The annexation was initiated due to concerns over potential rival claims by other nations and aimed at enhancing Britain's maritime dominance and protecting trade routes, particularly amidst ongoing conflicts with France and the United States at that time.

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Politics & Government

Argentina's Declaration of Independence

July 9th, 1816 208 years ago

Representatives from various provinces of the United Provinces of the Río de la Plata convened in a Congress in Tucumán, declaring independence from Spanish colonial rule. Led by significant figures such as Juan José Viamonte and Manuel Belgrano, this monumental act reflected the aspirations for self-governance and sovereignty amidst the backdrop of various revolutions in South America against European dominance. This declaration marked the culmination of years of struggle and set the stage for Argentina’s future as a nation.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bussa Leads Slave Rebellion in Barbados

April 14th, 1816 208 years ago

Bussa, a slave from Barbados, organized a rebellion against British colonial rule in April 1816. The uprising was fueled by the harsh conditions faced by enslaved individuals and the desire for freedom. Bussa and his followers aimed to confront the oppressive system, marking a significant moment in the struggle for emancipation. Their efforts, although ultimately suppressed, symbolized resistance and sparked further discussions about slavery in the British Empire. This act of defiance led to Bussa being remembered as a national hero in Barbados.

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Politics & Government

Kandyan Convention Signed by British and Kandyans

March 2nd, 1815 210 years ago

The Kandyan Convention was signed between British colonial forces and leaders of the Kingdom of Kandy in Ceylon. This agreement marked the end of hostilities and established British control over the region, leading to the formal annexation of the Kandyan territories. The signatories included Major Thomas Marshall representing the British and various leaders from the Kingdom of Kandy. The treaty facilitated the transition of political power and aimed to ensure peace in the region, albeit under foreign domination.

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Politics & Government

Sir Thomas Maitland Becomes Governor of Malta

July 23rd, 1813 211 years ago

Sir Thomas Maitland was appointed as the first Governor of Malta, elevating the island's status from a British protectorate to a de facto colony. His tenure lasted until 1814, marking a significant transition in administrative control. This change occurred during a time when Malta was strategically important in the Mediterranean, providing the British with a vital naval base. Maitland implemented various reforms, focusing on infrastructure and governance to stabilize the region.

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Politics & Government

José Matías Delgado Calls for Independence

November 5th, 1811 213 years ago

José Matías Delgado rang the bells of La Merced church in San Salvador, urging the local population to rise against Spanish colonial rule. His call for insurrection symbolized a key moment in the struggle for independence from Spain, rallying supporters to initiate greater political action. The event marked the beginning of the 1811 Independence Movement, which sought to liberate Central America from colonial governance.

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Politics & Government

Actions Against Spanish Governance in Paraguay

May 14th, 1811 213 years ago

Pedro Juan Caballero, Fulgencio Yegros, and José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia conspired to overthrow the Spanish governor, showcasing early independence efforts. Their collective actions marked a pivotal moment for Paraguay’s quest for autonomy, igniting fervor among locals eager for self-governance against colonial rule.

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