Spanish diplomat count of Aranda supported American independence

Filmmaker Mirella R. Abrisqueta released a documentary in Washington to highlight the role of Spain in the independence of the United States.

The film, titled El embajador que cambió la historia, premiered at the Spanish Cultural Center of the Spanish Embassy. It aims to give recognition to the 10th Count of Aranda, a diplomat who worked behind the scenes during the late 18th century.

The documentary explores how Pedro Pablo Abarca de Bolea, the Count of Aranda, advocated for Spanish support of American colonists while serving as an ambassador in Paris for 14 years. Abrisqueta notes that Aranda pushed for this support even when other ministers and the Spanish monarch expressed hesitation. While his actions were driven by the strategic interests of the Spanish Crown, his diplomacy helped secure the recognition of the new nation.

The film also examines how much of the resources used to support the independence movement came from Spanish territories, specifically from silver in the colonies and soldiers from Cuba. Abrisqueta argues that Spanish contributions have often been overshadowed by famous figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The documentary includes interviews with 14 experts from Spain, France, and the United States to provide a fuller view of this historical period.