What does this quote mean my Simon Bolivar "those who have served the revolution have plowed the sea"?

In South America, Simon Bolivar, a Creole, led the movement for independence. Inspired by Enlightenment ideas and the example of George Washington, he led rebellious forces which ultimately overcame Spanish forces. Bolivar had hoped to form a great confederation of South America, similar to the United States to be known as Gran Colombia. However, strong regional differences made this impossible and the confederation broke up. Disappointed, Bolivar lamented "those who have served the revolution have plowed the sea." Instead of a great confederation, the various areas of South America proclaimed independent republics.