Volunteers of the Empire - War, Identity, and Spanish Imperialism, 1855-1898

This book uncovers the history of The Volunteers, a Spanish loyalist militia who were committed to upholding Spanish imperial interests and influence in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Santa Domingo and The Philippines as the age of empire came to a close. Unpicking the relationship between local and imperial administrations and highlighting the contribution of voluntary units to colonial warfare, Padilla Angulo shows how Spanish loyalism persevered in the colonies even as the last bastions of empire were dismantled. Revealing the complexity and diversity of The Volunteers themselves in various colonies, shows how thousands of young men of Spanish, African and Asian descent were united in the defence of Spanish sovereignty in times of anti-colonial struggle that were civil wars in all but name. It uncovers a fascinating history of a militia that became an essential element of Spanish imperialism and the armed wing of Spanish loyalism during the second half of the 19th century. Through their fluctuating relationship with the authorities in Spain, The Volunteers provide a fresh perspective into the global and local complexities of nation building, nationalism and citizenship.>

Product details

• Authors: Fernando J. Padilla Angulo, Fernando J Padilla Angulo, Fernando J. Padilla Angulo
• Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 01.07.2024
• EAN: 9781350281233
• ISBN: 978-1-350-28123-3
• No. of pages: 288
• Dimensions: 150 mm x 229 mm x 15 mm
• Subjects: Non-fiction book > History > Miscellaneous; Modern history to 20th century: c 1700 to c 1900, European History, HISTORY / Military / General, military history, HISTORY / Caribbean & West Indies / Cuba, c 1800 to c 1900, Colonialism & imperialism, Later 19th century c 1850 to c 1899, Empires & historical states, Colonialism and imperialism, Spanish Empire, HISTORY / Revolutions, Uprisings & Rebellions