Final answer:
The independence movements in British North America stemmed from economic growth, political maturity, and a desire for self-governance, while in Spanish America, resentment towards direct Spanish rule and inspiration from other revolutions fueled the desire for independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Leading to Independence Movements
The independence movements in British North America and Spanish America were driven by various factors that included political, economic, and social dimensions. In British North America, the sense of self-sufficiency and matured political thought, along with economic growth and increasing self-governance, set the groundwork for rebellion against British mercantilist policies and restrictions on settlers’ rights. In contrast, the Spanish American independence movements were significantly influenced by the direct rule from Spain, the resentment of the creole elites towards the political power of peninsulares, and economic limitations imposed on the colonies. Furthermore, the disruption of Spanish sovereignty during the Napoleonic wars allowed for the search for independence to ignite in Spanish America.
Comparative motivations for independence were evident in both regions. British North American colonists sought to protect their perceived rights and self-governance as they faced impositions like the Stamp Act and Tea Act, which violated their belief in 'no taxation without representation.' On the other hand, Spanish American colonies, inspired by the successful independence of the United States and the French Revolution, saw a weakened Spain as an opportunity to assert their independence and form self-governing bodies.