HI 215 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Bourbon Reforms, Moral Economy, Anti-Clericalism
Document Summary
The bourbon monarchs came to power in the spain in 1700 as a result of the absence of a habsburg heir (before this they ruled) Done through bourbon reforms which sought to make the colonies more profitable and more efficient to exploit. Challenge: belief that there was an unchangeable law was thought in the colonies. Reforms were carried out throughout the 1700"s, but most predominantly in the 1760"s. Consisted of military, administrative, fiscal, anti-clerical, social reforms and public works. Fundamental for revenue and included the construction of new forts. More funding for navy and coastal defense. Downside: they reinforced a nascent american identity. People referred to themselves as americans rather than people of the king. Were less expensive to field than the standing army. Involved the selection of officials more on the basis of the ability and nobility. Creation of new viceroyalties, new granada and rio de la plata. To stem contraband flow and have efficiently.