Final answer:
The restrictive colonial policies and governance imposed by the European powers acted as a significant political push factor that led to the independence movements in South America, as they hindered economic development and local governance, fueling desire for autonomy and independence. The correct answer is option C).
Step-by-step explanation:
The political push factor that contributed to the independence movements in South America was C) Restrictive colonial policies and governance. Throughout the colonial period, the European powers implemented mercantilist policies that controlled the economies of their colonies and restricted economic development and self-governance. This led to growing dissatisfaction among the creole elites, who desired more economic autonomy and political power. The tension between the desire for free trade, control over tax revenue, and local governance and the rigid colonial control set the stage for independence movements.
Additionally, the success of the uprising in Haiti and the upheavals on the Iberian Peninsula weakened the grip of Spain and Portugal on their colonies, thereby contributing to the independence movements. Latin American nationalists, including figures like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín, led military operations with the aim to detach from colonial powers and establish sovereign nations.