ABSTRACT
For historians of the Hispanic world, the American Revolution raises several important issues. Seen from the perspective of Spanish history, the main questions relate to Spain’s history as an international power. Conscious of the need to conserve the stability of Spain’s American empire, Charles III and his ministers were reluctant openly to support the rebellion of Britain’s colonial subjects when they declared independence in 1776. Spain had nonetheless made important short-term strategic gains from its involvement in the War of American Independence without incurring the political damage that affected Bourbon France. Spain’s engagement in the War of American Independence did, however, interact with Bourbon policies and Spanish American politics in important ways. Although the Comunero and Tupamarist rebellions did not follow the North American example, some Spanish officials saw the American Revolution as a serious threat to the future of Spanish rule.
