Colombian Independence in 1810 was a complex process that developed as part of the independence

movements that were taking shape in Latin America against Spanish colonial rule. Here is an overview of how
Colombian Independence came about in 1810:
The Colombian Declaration of Independence occurred on July 20, 1810 when the Junta de Santa Fe was formed
in Santa Fe de Bogota, the capital of the Spanish colonial Viceroyalty of New Granada, to govern the territory
autonomously from Spain.
July 20, 1810 was a Sunday, which was market day when peasants and merchants gathered in the central
square of Santa Fe de Bogota, so the conspirators who wanted to break with the Spanish crown were looking
for a way to generate a revolt.
On July 20, 1810 in Santa Fe, the Morales brothers asked Llorente to borrow a vase and he refused, so a brawl
broke out in which the vase was broken.
Un florero fue el detonante que desató el grito de independencia de Colombia el 20 de julio de 1810. On the
morning of July 20, criollo Luis Rubio asked to borrow a vase from Spanish merchant José González Llorente,
for a dinner party with a visiting royal commissioner. After Llorente predictably refused, the criollos smashed the
vase and a planned revolt ensued.
Background: The idea of independence had been brewing throughout the American colonies, fueled by factors
such as enlightened ideas, colonial abuses, and examples of independence in other parts of the continent, such
as the independence of the United States.
Social discontent: In Colombia, as in other colonies, there was growing social discontent due to strict colonial
policies, social discrimination, and economic exploitation.
Napoleon's influence: The invasion of Spain by Napoleonic troops in 1808 weakened the crown's direct control
over its colonies. This created a power vacuum in Latin America, and in the absence of an effective government,
the colonies began to question their loyalty to the crown.
Cabildo Abierto de Santa Fe de Bogotá (July 20, 1810): A crucial event occurred on July 20, 1810 in Santa Fe
de Bogotá (today Bogotá, Colombia). On this day, a group of local leaders, influenced by Enlightenment ideas
and motivated by the power vacuum left by the Napoleonic occupation of Spain, organized an open town
meeting. During this assembly, the possibility of establishing a local government board was discussed.
Formation of the Junta de Gobierno: After intense deliberations, it was decided to form a Junta Suprema de
Gobierno, which would assume control on behalf of Fernando VII, the Spanish monarch. This act marked the de
facto beginning of the independence process.
Development of the Independence Process: Although initially seeking to rule in the name of the deposed king,
over time, loyalty to the Spanish crown weakened. Events continued to unfold as independence leaders
consolidated their position and tensions arose with those who still sought to maintain loyalty to the Spanish
crown.
Battles and Consolidation of Independence: The struggle for independence in Colombia continued with several
battles and armed conflicts, most notably the Battle of Boyacá in 1819, led by Simón Bolívar, which was
instrumental in consolidating the region's independence.

1814
The Patria Boba
The Patria Boba o Foolish Land, was a period of political and social instability that occurred in New Granada
(present-day Colombia) between 1810 and 1816, just after the first independence movements. This period was
characterized by the lack of an effective central government and the proliferation of internal conflicts. The main
aspects of La Patria Boba are described here:

Absence of Firm Leadership: After the Cabildo Abierto de Santa Fe de Bogotá in 1810, where a Junta Suprema
de Gobierno was established on behalf of King Ferdinand VII, the lack of firm and unified leadership led to the
proliferation of local and regional governments.
Political and Social Divisions: Different factions and groups emerged with divergent views on the direction New
Granada should take. Tensions between liberals and conservatives, as well as between centralists and
federalists, contributed to instability.
Inability to Govern: The lack of an effective central authority and the inability of the different leaders and factions
to reach political agreements led to a period of chaos and lack of effective government.
Foreign Influence: During La Patria Boba, there were also foreign interventions, such as the military expedition
of Pablo Morillo sent by Ferdinand VII to restore colonial order. Morillo arrived in 1815 and put an end to the
chaotic situation, reestablishing Spanish control.
Restoration of Spanish Rule: The intervention of Morillo and his forces led to the temporary restoration of Spanish
rule in the region. New Granada returned to being a colony under direct control of the Spanish crown.
In summary, La Patria Boba was a period of political and social disorder characterized by the inability to establish
an effective government and internal struggles between different factions. This period culminated in the
restoration of Spanish rule in the region, but also laid the groundwork for future independence movements and
the consolidation of independence in the following decades.

1819
Battle of Boyacá
The Battle of Boyacá, fought on August 7, 1819, was a crucial confrontation in the struggle for Colombian and
South American independence. The key events of the Battle of Boyacá are described here:
Context:
After Colombia's initial independence in 1810, the struggle for liberation continued. Simón Bolívar, one of the
most prominent independence leaders, led military campaigns to expel royalist forces (loyal to Spain) and
consolidate independence.
Preparations:
Bolívar, in command of an independence army, moved strategically through Colombian territory, seeking to
confront the royalist army led by General José María Barreiro. The Battle of Boyacá was fought near the crossing
of the Teatinos River, near the city of Tunja.
Development of the Battle:
On August 7, 1819, the forces of Bolívar and Barreiro met at Boyacá. Bolívar devised a cunning and strategic
plan to take advantage of the geography of the terrain. During the battle, the pro-independence troops carried
out a maneuver known as the "Charge of the Swamp". Bolivar's forces flanked and surprised the royalist troops,
who were trapped between the independence forces and the difficult terrain of the swamp, making it difficult for
them to move.
Result:
The Battle of Boyacá resulted in a decisive victory for the independence forces. The defeat of the royalist troops
was overwhelming, and the victory opened the way for the liberation of Bogota, the capital of New Granada.
Consequences:
The Battle of Boyacá was a fundamental milestone in the struggle for the independence of Colombia and South
America. The victory paved the way for the liberation of Bogotá on August 10, 1819 and established the basis
for the creation of Gran Colombia, a federation that included Colombia, Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela, under
the leadership of Bolívar.
In recognition of the importance of this battle, August 7 is celebrated as Battle of Boyacá Day in Colombia,
marking a key event on the road to the region's definitive independence.
In recognition of the importance of this battle, August 7 is celebrated as Battle of Boyacá Day in Colombia,
marking a key event on the road to the region's definitive independence.

1848
Liberals and Conservatives
In 1848, Colombia experienced important events related to tensions between the Liberal and Conservative
parties, which marked a significant period in the country's political history. Key events are described here:
Context:
After Colombia's independence in the 19th century, two main political currents emerged: the liberals and the
conservatives. These two groups had ideological, political and economic differences that generated tensions and
conflicts throughout the century.
Events of 1848:
In 1848, a series of events took place that reflected the political tensions between liberals and conservatives in
Colombia:
Constitution of 1843: In 1843, a new constitution was enacted that reflected liberal principles. This constitution
sought to establish a government based on ideas of equality and liberty.
Conservative Discontent: Conservatives were dissatisfied with the liberal orientation of the constitution and
sought to reverse certain reforms.
Conservative Rebellion: In 1848, a conservative rebellion led by José María Obando, a liberal general who allied
himself with disgruntled conservatives, broke out. This rebellion sought to change the political orientation of the
country and challenge liberal rule.
Armed Conflict: The rebellion led to an armed conflict in the country between liberal and conservative forces.
This struggle had significant implications in various regions of Colombia.
Temporary Reconciliation: Despite the tensions, a temporary reconciliation was achieved in 1849, which led to
the signing of the Treaty of Coche between liberals and conservatives. This treaty sought to reestablish peace
and stabilize the country.
Consequences:
Although the Treaty of Coche succeeded in temporarily pacifying the situation, tensions between liberals and
conservatives continued in subsequent decades, marking a constant political struggle in Colombia's history. The
alternation in power between these two groups became a characteristic pattern of Colombian politics in the 19th
century and part of the 20th century. This period of tensions and conflicts between liberals and conservatives is
commonly known as the "War of the Supremes".

1853 Liberal Constitution

In 1853, Colombia experienced an important milestone in its political history with the enactment of the Liberal
Constitution. This event marked a significant change in the structure and principles of government in the country.
Key aspects related to the Liberal Constitution of 1853 are described here:
Context:
In the 19th century, political struggles between liberals and conservatives were a constant in the political life of
Colombia. These two groups had divergent political, economic and ideological visions and sought to establish
their influence in the direction of the country.
Main Characteristics of the Liberal Constitution of 1853:
Influence of Liberalism: The Constitution of 1853 strongly reflected the principles of liberalism, seeking to
establish a government based on ideas of individual liberty, equality and separation of powers.
Individual Guarantees: The constitution incorporated individual guarantees, protecting rights such as freedom of
expression, freedom of worship and private property.
Decentralization of Power: It sought to decentralize power, granting greater autonomy to the states and limiting
centralized control from the capital.
Church-State Separation: The Constitution of 1853 established a clear separation between Church and State,
limiting ecclesiastical influence in governmental affairs
Representative System: A representative system was established, allowing the participation of citizens in
decision-making through electoral processes.
Duration and Subsequent Changes: Although the Constitution of 1853 represented an advance in terms of liberal
principles, its duration was relatively short. Political tensions and conflicts between liberals and conservatives
led to constitutional changes and alternations in power in the following decades.
Consequences:
The Liberal Constitution of 1853 had a significant impact by establishing a legal framework that reflected the
ideals of liberalism. However, it was also a period marked by political instability and conflict, as tensions between
liberals and conservatives persisted in Colombian history.

1858 Conservative Constitution

In 1858, Colombia experienced an important political change with the enactment of the Conservative
Constitution. This event represented a conservative response to the changes introduced by the Liberal
Constitution of 1853. Key aspects related to the Conservative Constitution of 1858 are described here:
Context:
The historical context was marked by political tensions between liberals and conservatives in Colombia. After
the enactment of the Liberal Constitution in 1853, conservatives, who sought to preserve certain values and
traditions, took measures to counteract liberal influence.
Main Characteristics of the Conservative Constitution of 1858:
Restoration of Order and Tradition: The Conservative Constitution sought to restore order and tradition,
counteracting the liberal reforms introduced by the previous constitution.
Protection of Church and Property: Conservatives were known for their support of the Church and private
property. The Conservative Constitution strengthened the relationship between Church and State and protected
property rights.
Centralization of Power: Unlike the Liberal Constitution which advocated decentralization of power, the
Conservative Constitution tended to favor a more centralized structure, granting greater control from the capital.
Restrictions on Individual Liberties: Compared to the Liberal Constitution, the Conservative Constitution
introduced restrictions on certain individual liberties, seeking to maintain stricter control over certain aspects of
society.
Consequences:
The enactment of the Conservative Constitution in 1858 marked a period in which the Conservatives took control
of the government, reversing some of the reforms introduced by the Liberal Constitution. This alternation in power
between liberals and conservatives became a distinctive feature of 19th century Colombian politics, generating
a cycle of constitutional changes and political conflicts in the following decades.

1863 Federal Constitution

The Federal Constitution of 1863 in Colombia represented an attempt to establish a federal system of
government, seeking to decentralize power and grant greater autonomy to the country's regions. Key aspects
related to the 1863 Federal Constitution are described here:
Context:
In the 19th century, Colombia experienced frequent changes in its political structure, with tensions between
liberals and conservatives often resulting in constitutional modifications. In this context, some leaders advocated
for a federal model to strengthen regional autonomy.
Main Characteristics of the Federal Constitution of 1863:

Decentralization of Power: The Federal Constitution sought to decentralize power by granting greater autonomy
to the states or departments that made up the federation. This model was intended to balance power between
the central government and the regional entities.
Division of Powers: A clear division of powers was established between the central government and local
governments, allowing the states to manage specific issues without direct intervention from the central
government.
State Representation: The federal structure was reflected in state representation, where each regional entity had
a voice in national decision-making.
Change in Political Structure: The implementation of the Federal Constitution meant a significant change in the
Colombian political structure, moving away from a centralized model to a more federal one.
Consequences: Despite attempts to establish a federal system, the Federal Constitution of 1863 faced
challenges and did not endure over time. Political tensions and disputes between liberals and conservatives,
along with other factors, led to modifications in the governmental structure in the following years. This attempt to
adopt a federal model reflected the search for political balance and adaptation to changing circumstances, but
the political and social conditions in Colombia at the time made it difficult to consolidate a lasting federal system.

1863 The Regeneration

In 1863, in Colombia, a period known as "The Regeneration" began, led by the politician and statesman Rafael
Núñez. This period was characterized by an attempt to restore stability and order in the country, as well as to
strengthen the central power. The key aspects of La Regeneración are described below:
Context of Instability: The 1860s witnessed considerable political and social instability in Colombia. After earlier
attempts to establish a federal system in 1863, the country was in search of a solution that could restore order
and central authority.
Leadership of Rafael Núñez: Rafael Núñez, who would later become president of Colombia, was a central figure
in La Regeneración. Núñez sought to restore the authority of the central government and advocated for a strong,
centralized government.
Restoration of Order: During La Regeneración, policies aimed at restoring order and governmental authority
were implemented. It sought to end political instability and establish a government that could exercise more
effective control over the country.
Centralization of Power: Unlike previous attempts at decentralization, La Regeneración was characterized by a
centralization of power. Núñez sought to strengthen the presidency and the central government to maintain
stability and avoid fragmentation of the country.
Emphasis on Morals and Education: In addition to political reforms, La Regeneración also emphasized moral
and educational issues. It sought to promote traditional values and encourage education as a means to improve
society.
Duration and Legacy: La Regeneration had a significant impact on Colombian politics at the time. Rafael Núñez
became president on several occasions during this period and left a legacy marked by the search for stability
through a strong and centralized government.
The Regeneration, although it achieved some short-term stability, also generated criticism and tensions in
Colombian society, particularly in relation to the centralization of power and the conservative policies
implemented during this period.

The Constitution of 1886 marked a fundamental change in Colombia's political structure and had a lasting impact
on the country. The main changes associated with the 1886 Constitution are described here:
Centralization of Power: The 1886 Constitution represented a return to a more centralized model of government,
in contrast to earlier attempts at decentralization. This change was due in part to the political tensions and
conflicts that characterized the previous decades, as well as to the search for stability.
Establishment of a Unitary State: Unlike previous constitutions that experimented with federal forms of
government, the Constitution of 1886 established a unitary state, concentrating power in the central government
in Bogotá.
Strengthened Executive Power: The new constitution significantly strengthened the power of the president and
the central executive. It sought to provide strong and stable leadership, considering the previous political
instability.
Length of Presidential Terms: A longer presidential term was established, extending the presidential term to six
years, with the possibility of immediate reelection. This provision allowed for greater continuity in leadership.
Restrictions on Individual Liberties: The 1886 Constitution also introduced restrictions on some individual liberties
in an effort to maintain order and stability. These restrictions were seen by some as necessary to avoid political
and social conflicts.
Conservative Party Dominance: During this period, conservative parties had a significant influence on Colombian
politics, and the 1886 Constitution largely reflected their values and perspectives.

The 1886 Constitution was in force for much of the 20th century and established the political framework for the
country until it was replaced by the 1991 Constitution. Although it succeeded in providing some stability, it also
generated criticism due to restrictions on individual liberties and the centralization of power.

1899 The Thousand Days Wars

The Thousand Days Wars, also known as the Civil War of 1899-1902, was an armed conflict that took place in
Colombia between 1899 and 1902. This conflict was the result of political, social and economic tensions that had
built up in the country. The key events of The Thousand Days Wars are described here:
Causes:
Political Tensions: Rivalries between political parties, mainly between liberals and conservatives, intensified.
There was discontent with the government and policies of the time.
Social Inequalities: Socioeconomic factors, such as inequality and dissatisfaction among different sectors of
society, contributed to the unrest.
Regional Conflicts: Regional tensions also played an important role, as different areas of the country had
divergent interests and perspectives.
Development of the Conflict:
Outbreak of Conflict (1899): The war officially began on October 17, 1899 when an armed revolt broke out in
Bogotá. Liberals, led by José Santos de la Rosa, rose up against the conservative government.
Phases of the Conflict: The war was characterized by several phases and battles in different parts of the country.
Both sides, liberals and conservatives, received support from various factions and regional leaders.
Foreign Intervention: During the conflict, there were attempts at intervention by the United States and some
European countries. However, these efforts did not have a decisive impact on the outcome of the war.
Consequences:
Destructiveness and Human Loss: The Thousand Days Wars were extremely destructive and resulted in great
loss of life. The resulting violence and instability affected entire communities.
End of the Conflict (1902): The conflict came to an end in 1902 with the defeat of the Liberals. A peace treaty
known as the Treaty of Neerlandia was signed, which sought to end the violence and restore stability.
Impact on Politics: Although the war ended with the signing of the treaty, the political and social consequences
lingered. The division and distrust between liberals and conservatives continued to affect Colombian politics in
the decades that followed.

The Thousand Days Wars left a deep mark on Colombian history, reflecting the political and social tensions that
characterized much of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the country.

1. Workshop Questions:
Section 1: Multiple Choice
1. What event marked the Colombian Declaration of Independence in 1810?
• a) Battle of Boyacá
• b) The Regeneration
• c) Cabildo Abierto de Santa Fe de Bogotá
• d) The Thousand Days Wars
 2. What factor weakened the Spanish crown's control over its colonies, including New Granada?
• a) Enlightenment ideas
• b) Economic exploitation
• c) Social discrimination
• d) All of the above
3. Which battle in 1819 led by Simón Bolívar was instrumental in consolidating Colombian
independence?
• a) Battle of Boyacá
• b) Battle of Neerlandia
• c) Battle of Bogotá
• d) Battle of Santa Fe
4. In 1848, what event marked tensions between Liberals and Conservatives in Colombia?
• a) Battle of Boyacá
• b) La Patria Boba
• c) Constitution of 1853
• d) Liberals and Conservatives
Section 2: Fill in the Blank
5. The Colombian Declaration of Independence occurred on July 20, 1810, when the Junta de Santa
Fe was formed in ___________.
6. The invasion of Spain by Napoleonic troops in 1808 created a power vacuum in Latin America,
leading to the questioning of loyalty to the ___________.
7. La Patria Boba was a period of political and social instability that occurred in New Granada
between 1810 and _______.
Section 3: True/False
8. Napoleon's invasion of Spain in 1808 strengthened the crown's control over its colonies in Latin
America. (True/False)
9. The Battle of Boyacá resulted in a decisive victory for the royalist forces. (True/False)
10. The Regeneration, led by Rafael Núñez, aimed to decentralize power in Colombia. (True/False)
Section 4: Match the Following
11. Match the following events with their respective years:
• a) Constitution of 1853 • i) 1863
• b) Battle of Boyacá • ii) 1848
• c) The Thousand Days Wars • iii) 1819
• d) The Regeneration • iv) 1886
Section 5: Short Answer
12. Explain the factors that fueled the idea of independence in the American colonies, including
Colombia.
13. Describe the consequences of the Thousand Days Wars on Colombian politics and society.
Section 6: Multiple Choice - Advanced
14. Who was the influential leader during the Regeneration, advocating for a strong, centralized
government?
• a) José Santos de la Rosa
• b) Simón Bolívar
• c) Rafael Núñez
• d) José María Barreiro
15. What was the main characteristic of the Constitution of 1886 in terms of government structure?
• a) Federal system
• b) Unitary state
• c) Decentralized power
• d) Separation of Church and State
Section 7: Fill in the Blank - Advanced
16. The Liberal Constitution of 1853 aimed to decentralize power, while the Conservative Constitution
of 1858 tended to favor a more ____________ structure.
17. The 1863 Federal Constitution sought to establish a __________ system of government, balancing
power between the central government and regional entities.
Section 8: Essay Question
18. Discuss the significance of the Battle of Boyacá in the context of Colombian and South American
independence movements.

2. Workshop Questions:
Section 1: Multiple Choice
1. What was the main objective of the Federal Constitution of 1863 in Colombia?
• a) Centralization of power
• b) Establishment of a unitary state
• c) Decentralization of power
• d) Strengthened executive power
2. Who was the key leader during "The Regeneration" period in Colombia?
• a) Simón Bolívar
• b) Rafael Núñez
• c) José Santos de la Rosa
• d) José María Barreiro
3. Which constitution marked a return to a more centralized model of government in 1886?
• a) Federal Constitution of 1863
• b) Conservative Constitution of 1858
• c) Liberal Constitution of 1853
• d) Constitution of 1886
 4. What event marked the end of The Thousand Days Wars in 1902?
• a) Treaty of Neerlandia
• b) Battle of Boyacá
• c) The Regeneration
• d) Constitution of 1886
Section 2: Fill in the Blank
5. The Federal Constitution of 1863 aimed to __________ power by granting greater autonomy to the
states.
6. During "The Regeneration," Rafael Núñez sought to restore order and governmental authority through
policies of ____________.
7. The 1886 Constitution established a __________ state, concentrating power in the central government
in Bogotá.
Section 3: True/False
8. The Federal Constitution of 1863 successfully endured over time, establishing a long-lasting federal
system. (True/False)
9. The Thousand Days Wars were primarily caused by regional conflicts and foreign interventions.
(True/False)
10. The Regeneration, led by Rafael Núñez, aimed to decentralize power in Colombia. (True/False)
Section 4: Match the Following
11. Match the following events with their respective contexts:
• a) The Federal Constitution of 1863 • i) Attempt to establish a federal system
• b) The Regeneration • ii) Period of instability and search for central
• c) The Constitution of 1886 authority
• d) The Thousand Days Wars • iii) Concentration of power in a unitary state
• iv) Armed conflict due to political tensions
Section 5: Short Answer
12. Explain the main reasons for the failure of the Federal Constitution of 1863 to endure over time.
13. Describe the impact of "The Regeneration" on Colombian politics and society during the 1860s.
Section 6: Multiple Choice - Advanced
14. What was the significant change in the length of presidential terms introduced by the Constitution
of 1886?
• a) Two years
• b) Four years
• c) Six years
• d) Eight years
15. Who were the main factions involved in The Thousand Days Wars?
• a) Liberals and Royalists
• b) Federalists and Centralists
 • c) Liberals and Conservatives
• d) Patriots and Loyalists
Section 7: Fill in the Blank - Advanced
16. The Regeneration emphasized moral and educational issues to promote traditional values and
encourage ____________.
17. The 1886 Constitution introduced restrictions on some individual liberties in an effort to maintain order
and ____________.
Section 8: Essay Question
18. Discuss the long-term consequences of The Thousand Days Wars on Colombian politics, society, and
regional relations.