THE POLICY OF THE ABASCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE CONSULATE OF LIMA IN THE FACE OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES, 1806-1816

Mazzeo C.A. · Almanack (2026) · DOI: 10.1590/2236-463340ea20940

Resumen

During the Napoleonic Wars, Peru was governed by Viceroy Fernando de Abascal from 1806 to 1816. During this period, several military conflicts disrupted long-distance trade, which in turn affected internal commerce within the viceroyalty. Abascal faced the crisis of the Spanish monarchy and the beginning of the wars of independence. Abascal was a skilled statesman who, in his efforts to defend the empire, adapted the decisions made by the Central Junta, acting almost as an independent sovereign. In doing so, he received unwavering support from the Lima Consulate. This study examines the decisions taken in Peru in response to neutral trade during the wars with England and Napoleonic France, as well as the contributions made by the viceroyalty to sustain these wars. The sources used for this presentation include reports from the Trade Consulate and the government memoirs of Viceroy Abascal, which contain critical reflections on the decisions made by the Central Junta and on viceregal authorities and their positions. What led Abascal to take independent action from the Central Junta? Why did the Lima Consulate adopt a similar stance and become Abascal’s strongest ally? These are some of the questions we will address.

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú