Nueva Granada, which was initially known as the Viceroyalty of New Granada is of great significance so far as Ecuador International Relations is concerned. The name “Viceroyalty of New Granada”, which was given in 29th of May, 1717, refers to the “Spanish colonial jurisdiction” that exerted power on the territories lying north of South America. This included within Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador and Columbia. Santa Fe de Bogota was the official capital of Nueva Granada.
Significance of Nueva Granada
There were two very important reasons that prompted the Spaniards to create Nueva Granada. The formation of this “Spanish colonial jurisdiction” was backed by two important reasons. Firstly, Spain believed that the strategically significant location of Nueva Granada would enable protection of South America from enemy attacks. This area also proved to be very beneficial for “auriferous production”.
Relation between Nueva Granada and Ecuador
Ecuador shared historically important role with the Viceroyalty of New Granada, which requires a special mention here. While Ecuador was a Spanish Colony, it joined the newly formed New Granada. At this point, Ecuador was already a part of Viceroyalty of Peru. “Real Audiencia de Quito”, which was initially included within the Viceroyalty of Peru, was made a part of Nueva Granada, after it was re-established in 1739. This is where the ultimate importance of Nueva Granada is manifested.
Later, Nueva Granada gained its independence from the Spanish rule in between 1819 and 1822 and became a part of Gran Columbia.
