Simon Bolivar and the Birth of South American Independence Movement

Simon Bolivar was a Venezuelan military and political leader who played a crucial role in the South American wars of independence from Spanish rule. He led expeditions that liberated several nations, including Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, earning him the title "El Libertador". As a leader, how important was Simon Bolivar to independence movements in South America? How did this independence movement from Colonial Spanish rule influence the newly established states politically, economically, socially and militarily? How did the indigenous population fare in these newly formed nations (were they ever intended to become nations or one single entity)? Join us for an interesting historical discussion. 

Reading suggestions:

• Bolivar: American Liberator by Marie Arana
• Bolivar: Liberator of Latin America by Robert Harvey 
• Simon Bolivar: A Life by John Lynch 
• Simon Bolivar: Una Pasion Politica by Mario Hernandez Sanchez-Barba 
• Bolivar by Salvador de Madariaga
• Simon Bolivar by Dennis Wepman