May Revolution

La Revolución de Mayo (the May Revolution) was the first attempt at independence in the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata, which contains present-day Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Related Topics:
Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata - Argentina - Bolivia - Paraguay - Uruguay

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On May 13, 1810, the arrival of a British frigate in Montevideo confirmed the rumors circulating in Buenos Aires: Napoleon I of France had invaded Spain, capturing and overthrowing King Ferdinand VII, who was replaced by Napoleon's older brother Joseph Bonaparte. This meant that the power of the Crown was transferred to the Regency Council in Cádiz, which was besieged by French troops. The situation was clear: with the authority of the viceregency gone, there was a power vacuum.

Related Topics:
May 13 - 1810 - British - Frigate - Montevideo - Buenos Aires - Napoleon I of France - Overthrow - King - Ferdinand VII - Joseph Bonaparte - Cádiz - Troop

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On May 25, 1810 the First Junta was created in Buenos Aires, removing viceroy Baltasar Hidalgo de Cisneros from power. In 1816 Argentina won its independence from the Spanish Crown.

Related Topics:
May 25 - 1810 - First Junta - Buenos Aires - Viceroy - Baltasar Hidalgo de Cisneros - 1816

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Today, el Día de la Revolución de Mayo (May Revolution Day) on May 25 is an annual holiday in Argentina to commemorate these significant events in the history of Argentina. This and other events of the week leading up to that day are referred to as la Semana de Mayo (May Week).

Related Topics:
May 25 - Holiday in Argentina - History of Argentina

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