Final answer:
The main social groups that engaged in the Mexican War of Independence were the nobility, indigenous communities, and urban merchants advocating for trade liberalization. Their motivations included autonomy, economic prosperity, and freedom from Spanish rule.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main social groups that engaged in the Mexican War of Independence were:
- Nobility supporting the status quo: The nobility, who were part of the ruling class, supported the continuation of Spanish rule in Mexico.
- Indigenous communities seeking autonomy: Indigenous communities desired autonomy and freedom from Spanish rule, as they had been oppressed and exploited for centuries.
- Urban merchants advocating for trade liberalization: Urban merchants, especially those involved in international trade, wanted to expand their economic opportunities and saw independence as a means to achieve trade liberalization.
Their motivations differed based on their social status and interests, but common motivations included the desire for freedom, autonomy, economic prosperity, and an end to Spanish colonial rule.