The Island of Santa Catarina in the Imperial Policy of Charles III

from the Bourbon Reformism to the Treaty of Santo Ildefonso (1700 – 1777)

Abstract

This article investigates the importance of Santa Catarina Island in the imperial policy of Charles III, considering its invasion, occupation, and restitution within the context of the Bourbon Reforms of the eighteenth century. Based on the Treaty of San Ildefonso (1777) and correspondence from Iberian agents involved in this episode, the study connects the objectives of the Spanish crown to the historical context of the Empire, marked by the predominance of the geo-historical axis of Cape Horn. We argue that, although not central to Charles III's policies, curbing the Island's role as a facilitator of illegal trade was a significant part of his strategy.