DeRLAS Vol. 16 No. 2 Cherpak Delaware Review of Latin American Studies Vol. 16 No. 2 December 31, 2015 María Antonia Bolívar and the War for Independence in Venezuela Evelyn M. Cherpak Retired Archivist Portsmouth, RI
[email protected] Abstract This article explores the relationship of María Antonia Bolívar, supporter of the royalist cause during the wars for independence, with her brother, Simón Bolívar, the Liberator of northern South America, during the conflict and in the aftermath. It explores the role of a woman of the elite who accepted and executed responsibility for the protection of the Bolívar family properties and wealth. Keywords: María Antonia Bolívar, Simón Bolívar, Venezuela, Wars for Independence ******************************** A Divisive Issue The declaration of independence proclaimed by the Congress in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 5, 1811, and the war of independence that followed created a rift in mantuano families between those who supported the continuation of Spanish rule and those who desired a free and independent republic for political, social, and economic reasons. Old and distinguished families like the Rodríguez de Toros, the Galindos, the Palacios, and the Jérez de Aristeguietas were divided between those who remained loyal to the crown and those who supported the patriots.1 However, no family was more torn asunder by events than the Bolívars. Simón Bolívar, leader of the independence army and liberator of northern South America, early on supported ending ties with Spain. His brother, Juan Vicente, sailed to the United States in 1810 with orders from the junta that supported King Ferdinand VII to meet with Spanish Ambassador Luis de Onís to propose provincial autonomy, to procure weapons, and to obtain machinery to establish textile factories in Caracas.