Final answer:
Simón Bolívar played a key role in South American independence movements, organizing military operations and winning decisive battles against Spanish armies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Simón Bolívar had a significant impact on South American independence movements. As a leader and liberator, Bolívar played a key role in organizing and leading military operations in South America, with the goal of achieving and spreading independence throughout the continent. He successfully fought against Spanish armies and won decisive battles, ultimately leading to the independence of Venezuela, New Granada (now Colombia), Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. Bolívar's emphasis on strong central government, support for republican systems, and hope for unity among independent nations also influenced the political landscape of South America.