Colombia’s Independence: 210th Anniversary

Colombia’s Independence declaration is established on July 20th, 1810, by a merely symbolic act. However, this fact was preceded by several rebellions against Spanish colonization, in which the cities: Cartagena, Cali, Mompox, and Bogotá were very important and influenced to free Colombia from the Spanish yoke.

Historic context

During Spanish conquest, the first 100 years, the ethnic groups: Zambos, Mulattos, Mestizos, Indians, Blacks, and Indians were violently annihilated and subjected to forced and abusive labor carried out in the mines and crops.

The engines and revolts against the Spanish colonization began from 1555 led by the rebel groups called Tayrona and Quimbaya. Moreover, the comuneros insurrection, added to the black slave’s opposition in 1781, were the bases of Colombia’s Independence.

Dumb Motherland

Dumb Motherland, also called «the war first stage» is the name given to the time frame between 1810 and 1816 since, during these years, all Colombian regions rose up in arms to fight for their independence. Although, they were still considered King’s Spain property. Santa Cruz de Mompox district was the first to declare itself free.

Likewise, during this period, Cúcuta Valleys Battle was carried out in 1812, preceded by 150 battles approximate. This event, and the prestige loss of the crown had a strong impact on Venezuela’s Independence.

The freedom true cry

Colombia was declared an independent nation on July 20th, 1810, for a symbolic rather than libertarian reason, according to the historical context. This declaration was provoked by the vase delivery, as a fundamental trigger for the patriots who gather in Main Square Santa Fe to start confrontations against the Spanish.

It was not until 1819 with Boyacá Battle, that the true independence and birth of Colombia Republic was proclaimed.