How did changing social structures lead to revolution in spanish colonies? 1. as economic growth gave people influence, they still had little power; 2. enslaved people were a part of the lower class and wished to be free; 3. the rich grew richer in the spanish colonies, leading to resentment; or 4. influenced by enlightenment thought, th epoor resented the rich.

Answer 1

All of the options you listed played a role in leading to revolution in Spanish colonies. However, option 3, "the rich grew richer in the Spanish colonies, leading to resentment," is particularly relevant in understanding the socio-economic dynamics that led to revolution. Let's go through each of the options:

1. "As economic growth gave people influence, they still had little power": This option highlights a key aspect of the changing social structures in Spanish colonies. As economic growth occurred, a larger segment of the population, particularly the emerging middle class, gained wealth and influence. However, despite having some economic power, they still experienced limited political power and influence in the colonial system. This frustration with limited political power was one of the factors behind the push for revolution.

2. "Enslaved people were part of the lower class and wished to be free": Enslaved individuals were indeed part of the lower class in Spanish colonies, and their desire for freedom was another significant factor in the move towards revolution. Slavery was deeply ingrained in the colonial society and economy, and the enslaved population sought to challenge and overthrow the oppressive system.

3. "The rich grew richer in the Spanish colonies, leading to resentment": This option accurately underscores a critical issue in the Spanish colonies. As economic opportunities expanded, a small elite class of white criollos (those born in the colonies) and peninsulares (those born in Spain) benefited and accumulated more wealth. This wealth concentration, along with the accompanying social inequalities and lack of upward mobility for the lower classes, created resentment and discontent among the majority of the population. This growing wealth disparity was a significant driving force behind revolutionary movements.

4. "Influenced by Enlightenment thought, the poor resented the rich": The Enlightenment ideals of equality and individual rights did indeed permeate the Spanish colonies through various channels, such as books, pamphlets, and discussion groups. These ideas spread to the educated elites and played a role in spurring discontent and resentment among the poorer classes. The poor perceived the stark disparities in wealth and power as unjust and sought to challenge the existing social structures.

In conclusion, all of the options provided contributed to the changing social structures that ultimately led to revolution in Spanish colonies. The growing wealth disparities, limited political power despite economic growth, the desire for freedom among the enslaved, and the influence of Enlightenment thought all contributed to the simmering discontent that eventually ignited revolutionary movements.