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The area known today as
Uruguay was explored by Spain in the early 16th century, but strong
resistance from the indigenous people, called the Charrua and an
apparent lack of precious metals, as found in other neighbouring South
American countries, meant significant European colonial settlement and
rule didn't begin until the 17th century.
Discontent with colonial
rule began to gain momentum after the revolutions of France and the
United States. Armed conflict at the turn of the 19th century
signalled the beginning of the Uruguayan Revolution.
After sustained hostility
from Uruguayan liberation forces, Spain abandoned its Uruguayan
territory in 1814, only to be replaced in 1816 by the Portuguese.
Portuguese authority ceased in 1821 and for a short time Uruguay was
annexed by Brazil. With assistance from neighbouring Argentina,
Brazilian rule ended in 1825.
Uruguayan independence was recognised in
1828.
Two years later, the first
constitution of the Republic of Uruguay was proclaimed and on the 12th
of July 1830, the current national flag was adopted. |
