The movement toward Puerto Rican independence has been a long fought battle against colonialism. In 1898, following the Spanish-American War, the United States acquired many of the Spanish territories, including Puerto Rico. Leaders in Puerto Rico sought independence, but the US government asserted colonial control. This history of colonization sets the stage for a more modern struggle for Puerto Rican liberation and the US repression of such movements. So Puerto Ricans have wanted independence since the Spanish-American war but the US is holding us down, asserting us as a colony and not letting us go. It is treating us like Britain treated its colonies. What is the main reason for the movement toward Puerto Rican independence?
1) The desire for self-governance and independence
2) The influence of other independence movements
3) The economic exploitation by the United States
4) The historical ties to Spain