Bourbon Reforms

The Bourbon Reforms were a series of changes implemented by the Spanish Crown in the 18th century to modernize and strengthen its colonies in the Americas. These reforms aimed to improve administration, increase revenue, and enhance military defense by centralizing control, reducing corruption, and boosting trade. They also sought to make the colonies more loyal and productive parts of the empire. While they succeeded in some areas, the reforms often upset local elites and contributed to tensions that eventually led to independence movements across Latin America.