Answer: The importance of independence in the 19th century was significant for many countries, particularly those that were colonized by European powers. It allowed them to gain control over their own affairs, establish their own governments, and pursue their own economic and political goals without interference from the colonial rulers. For some countries, such as the United States and Haiti, independence also marked the beginning of a new era of growth and prosperity. However, the process of achieving independence could be complex and often involved long struggles against powerful opponents.