The major conflict that characterized the struggle for independence in Latin America in the 19th century was the series of Latin American wars of independence. Fueled by Enlightenment ideas and dissatisfaction with colonial rule, various leaders such as Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín spearheaded movements against Spanish colonial authority. The wars resulted in the establishment of independent republics, fundamentally altering the political landscape of Latin America. Despite achieving independence, countries faced ongoing challenges like political instability and economic dependency, impacting their development well into the 20th century.