Latin American Rebels and the United States, 1806-1822

<p> When separatist revolts erupted in Spain's American colonies in the early 1800s, opinion in the United States was undecided as to what position to take. Proximity and America's own anti-colonial ethos favored sympathy with the rebel cause, yet U.S. strategic interests during the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars dictated a policy of neutrality.</p><p> When representatives of the rebel provinces came to the U.S. seeking support, arms or recognition, and even launched armed assaults