The selected primary source is The Jamaica Letter, written by Simón Bolívar. The document was written when he was exiled to Jamaica in 1815. The content of the letter focuses on the unification of Latin American colonies to form a republican form of government.
The text makes me wonder and question whether or not there was a chance for America to become united. The significance of the primary source is rooted in the fact that there is a call for unity to form a republic. For example, Bolívar writes that he desires to see America as a great nation, not due to its wealth or location, but rather as glory and freedom (par. 34). He boldly called to see the New World of America as a single republic nation, but he acknowledged that his vision is impossible. He additionally emphasizes that the worst outcome would be a single monarchy (Bolívar par. 34). The source is important because it is visionary, and Bolívar looks past regional differences and sees the grand opportunity in abandoning the old-fashioned imperialistic methods of governance. I wonder how the current state of the world would be if the colonies were able to unite into a republic. Thus, the question is whether there was an opportunity to realize Bolívar’s vision during that period of history.
In conclusion, Simón Bolívar’s letter, The Jamaica Letter, is a vital piece of document that comprehensively discusses and addresses the Latin American fight for independence. However, its significance lies in the grand vision of Bolívar about a single American republic.
Work Cited
Bolívar, Simón. “Letter from Jamaica.” Modern Latin America, 1815, Web.