Spain declined as a power in the late 17th century while France rose. In the 18th century, reforms in Portugal and colonies led to unrest and rebellion, with Jesuits and natives opposing loss of authority. Independence movements emerged in Latin America in the early 19th century, led by priests and common people, culminating in declarations of independence in Mexico and Brazil.

2. 1665-1700: Spain slips into second rank power. Charles II is a weak imbecile. French Bourbon dynasty would come to rule Spain.

4. 1750-1777 Marquis of Pombal a Portugese statesman implemented trade with Brazil. 1788-1789 In Minas Gerais a group of rebels plot against the Crown to declare itself an independent rebublic. 1790 the Bourbon reforms had failed. Churches, Jesuits, Bishops and Indians realized the Reformers had destroyed the legitimacy of Royal authority. 1793 Negro uprisings in Haiti against the French planters. 1808 May 2, The people of Madrid rose in rebellion against the French troops.

5. 1810- Sept. 16, Miguel Hidalgo, a priest, leads the fight for Mexican independence with mostly Indian and Mestizo.

6. Jose Bonifacia de Andrada steers Brazil towards independence rebukes Portugal. 1822 Sept. 7, Dom Pedro declares Brazil independent of Portugal.