Independence of Colombia

The independence of Colombia is one of the most important and transcendental moments in the history of this South American country. This process, which took place at the beginning of the 19th century, marked the beginning of the struggle for freedom and emancipation from Spanish rule. Learn about the details, the main events, the key leaders who participated in the independence of Colombia and how this day is currently commemorated.

Before independence, Colombia was known as the Viceroyalty of New Granada, a region that comprised what are today the countries of Colombia , Ecuador , Panama , and Venezuela . For more than three centuries, this region was under the rule of the Spanish Empire, which ruled through a colonial structure headed by a viceroy. However, in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Enlightenment ideals and revolutions in Europe began to inspire the American colonies to seek their independence. The French Revolution and the independence of the United States were especially influential in awakening the spirit of freedom and self-determination in the inhabitants of New Granada .

The independence process

The independence movement in Colombia had several key moments that finally led to emancipation from Spanish rule. One of the most important events was the expedition of Francisco de Miranda in 1806. Miranda, a Venezuelan who had fought in the American war of independence, arrived on the Caribbean coast of Colombia with the intention of liberating the region from Spanish rule. . However, his attempt was thwarted and he had to withdraw. Despite this initial setback, the independence spirit continued to grow in the region. In 1810, the Creole uprising took place in the city of Bogotá, which would lead to the creation of the Supreme Government Board of the United Provinces of New Granada. This junta was the first manifestation of the desire for self-government and laid the foundations for future independence.

The fight for independence intensified in the following years. In 1811, the United Provinces of New Granada adopted a Constitution and declared their formal independence from Spanish rule. However, Spanish resistance and internal disputes made it difficult to consolidate independence.

One of the most outstanding moments of the independence war was the Admirable Campaign led by Simón Bolívar. Bolívar, a Venezuelan military and political leader, led a series of successful military campaigns in the region, culminating in the Battle of Boyacá in 1819. This battle marked a turning point in the war, as independence forces won a decisive victory. over the Spanish and consolidated their control over much of the territory.

In 1821, Gran Colombia was created, a republic that included the territories of New Granada, Venezuela, and Ecuador. Bolívar became the president of this new nation and played a fundamental role in the consolidation of independence and the search for political stability in the region. However, internal tensions and regional conflicts led to the dissolution of Gran Colombia in 1831, leading to the creation of the independent countries of Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

Colombia's independence was not only the result of the armed struggle, but also the political and diplomatic work of prominent leaders. In addition to Simón Bolívar, other influential leaders in the Colombian independence process were Francisco de Paula Santander, Antonio Nariño, Camilo Torres and Policarpa Salavarrieta, among others.

Francisco de Paula Santander , known as the "Man of Laws", was a military and political leader who played a key role in organizing the independence army and in drafting the Constitution of Cúcuta in 1821, which laid the foundations for the Great Colombia. Santander was also vice president of Gran Colombia and was noted for his work in promoting education and the country's economic development.

Antonio Nariño , for his part, was a lawyer and journalist who became one of the first leaders to advocate for the independence of Colombia. He was responsible for the translation and distribution of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, an important document of the French Revolution, which contributed to spreading the ideas of freedom and individual rights in the region.

Camilo Torres , for his part, was a priest and politician who played a fundamental role in the Colombian independence process. He was one of the first to raise the need for an armed struggle against Spanish rule and actively participated in the criollo uprising in 1810. Although he died in combat in 1816, his legacy lived on and his figure became a symbol of the struggle for independence.

Policarpa Salavarrieta, known as "La Pola", was a hero of independence who played a valuable role as a spy and messenger for the independence leaders. She was captured and executed by the Spanish authorities in 1817, but her sacrifice and bravery inspired others to continue the fight for independence.

The independence of Colombia was not an easy or quick process. For more than a decade, Colombian patriots faced numerous challenges and battles against the Spanish forces. However, thanks to the determination, leadership and spirit of sacrifice of the independentistas, Colombia finally achieved its freedom and became an independent nation.

This not only had an impact in the country, but also influenced the independence movement in other parts of Latin America. Colombia's example inspired other countries in the region to fight for their own independence, and many of the Colombian leaders, such as Simón Bolívar , played leading roles in the emancipation of other South American countries.

How is Independence Day commemorated?

On July 20 throughout the country, a series of activities and events are carried out to commemorate this historic date. The main cities of the country, such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cali and Cartagena, are the epicenters of the celebrations and offer a variety of activities for the population to participate and enjoy.

One of the most emblematic traditions of the Colombian Independence celebration is the military and police parade that takes place in the capital, Bogotá. This parade is one of the largest and most significant in the country and includes the participation of the armed forces, the national police and other institutions related to the security and defense of the country. During the parade, weapons, equipment and military skills are displayed, and tribute is paid to the soldiers and officers who have served and protected Colombia over the years. Another tradition rooted in the celebration of the Independence of Colombia is the cry of independence, which takes place on the night of July 19. In different cities of the country, ceremonies are held in which the moment in which independence was proclaimed is recreated. The local authorities, accompanied by the population, sing the original cry of independence and symbolic acts are carried out to remember the courage and determination of those who fought for freedom.

In addition to the parades and the cries of independence, numerous cultural and artistic activities are carried out to celebrate the date. In many cities, open-air concerts are organized, in which local and national artists perform folk music and other popular musical genres. There are also exhibitions of traditional dances, gastronomic samples and craft fairs, where you can enjoy the cultural diversity and richness of the Colombian heritage.

In the sports field, the celebration of the Independence of Colombia is also present. In some cities, marathons, races and sports competitions are organized to promote physical activity and the spirit of unity. These events often bring together people of all ages and provide an opportunity to strengthen community ties and promote a healthy lifestyle.

In recent years, technology and social networks have played an important role in the celebration of the Independence of Colombia. With the advancement of technology and the growing influence of social media, more and more people are using online platforms to share independence- related messages, images, and videos. Social networks become a space where Colombians express their national pride, share their experiences of celebration and connect with other compatriots around the world. Another relevant aspect of the celebration of the Independence of Colombia is the display of fireworks. In different cities of the country, fireworks are held to light up the sky and create a festive atmosphere. Fireworks are a visually stunning and exciting form of celebration, attracting thousands of people and creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement.

It is important to note that the celebration of the Independence of Colombia is not limited to a single day. On many occasions, the festivities extend throughout the month of July, with a series of events and cultural activities taking place over several weeks. These events include art exhibitions, open-air concerts, plays, folkloric parades, and sports competitions, among others.

Gastronomy also plays an important role in the celebrations of the Independence of Colombia. During this period, you can find various typical Colombian foods in restaurants, fairs, and gastronomic events. Traditional dishes such as bandeja paisa, ajiaco, sancocho and arepas are very popular and become a delicious way to celebrate and enjoy Colombian culture.

We can say that this date is an opportunity to strengthen national identity, promote unity, and highlight the pride and diversity of Colombian culture.