Rivalry: the United States, Britain and the making of Chile (1788-1830)

Abstract

Treball de Fi de Màster en Història del Món. Curs 2022-2023

Tutor: Claudia Contente

During the Latin American struggles for independence and the subsequent quest for national political, economic, and cultural identity, outside actors were deeply involved in the establishment of the modern state. In Chile, this was exemplifiedby the often-forgotten contributions ofthe United States and the United Kingdom, who both sought to become involved in the struggle and gain an economic and political ally in the South Pacific. This article attempts to analyze thecontacts and relationships between Chile and their Anglo counterparts during the first third of the 19thcentury.In early 19th century Chile, the rivalry between the Anglo states manifested itself through both nations attempting to leave their indelible mark on emerging Chilean state. Through economic, political, and social influence and pressure, both Britain and the United States endeavored to bring a soon-to-be independent Chile into their respective orbit. American interests were predominant during the Patria Vieja period, in the years following the deposition of the Spanish king and the establishment of an independent junta in 1810. However, following the royalist reconquest, and succeeding reverse of the independent Patria Nueva period, British influences came to dominate within the new Chilean nation, to the detriment of interested American parties, leading to the establishment of close ties with Britain and the alienation of the United States that would impact the governmental, societal, and commercial realms of the state and shape the country for the rest of the 19th century, with legacies continuing to be felt in the modern world. In effect, one cannot begin to understand the foundations of modern Chile without appreciating the British-American rivalry that took place in its waters, on its shores, and in its halls of power.