Question

How did Spanish conflicts on the Iberian Peninsula weaken the Spanish colonies?(1 point)
Responses

The Spanish were betrayed by the British joining independence movements.
The Spanish were betrayed by the British joining independence movements.

The Spanish had to stop using the mercantile system.
The Spanish had to stop using the mercantile system.

The Spanish were unable to focus resources on governing the colonies.
The Spanish were unable to focus resources on governing the colonies.

The Spanish were unable to maintain a presence in their military forts.
The Spanish were unable to maintain a presence in their military forts.

Answer 1

The Spanish were unable to focus resources on governing the colonies.

Explanation: The Peninsular War and other conflicts on the Iberian Peninsula distracted Spain, disrupted communications, and drained troops and money, leaving the colonies weak and easier for independence movements to succeed.