Written by Suleth Villeda on September 16th, 2020
How did the Mexican Independence Movement Start?
By the 19th century many Mexicans wanted to separate from Spain and create a sovereign government that would act on behalf of their own interests. In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte, a French statesman and military leader, invaded Spain. This act sufficide for Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic Priest and leader of the Mexican War of Independence, to officially join the patriots and the criollos, Spaniards born in Mexico, forming the rebellion against the Spanish government ruling over Mexico. During the first half of 1810, the patriotic group held multiple clandestine reunions pro-independence, previously called La Conspiracion de Queretaro.
El Dia de la Independencia
On the night of September the 15th, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo sent Maurico Hidalgo, Ignacio Allende y Mariano Abasolo in front of a group of armed men in order to free those who had been imprisoned for supporting independent movements.
Then arrived the day that Mexico celebrates its dia de la independencia, el 16 de septiembre. On September 16, 1808, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, rang the bells of a small church gathering all of the supporters and made the first cry for independence as he waved the Virgen de Guadalupe, a Roman Catholic image of the Virgin Mary, banner after a moving speech, el Grito de Dolores, in the Mexican town of Dolores. Hence began the gruesome 10 year battle against the spanish monarchy.
What Happened After El Día de la Independencia?
Inspired by Hidalgo’s memorable words, men, women, children, grandparents, and livestock assembled an army. However, this ragtag army suffered many defeats and uncertainty. Miguel Hidalgo was captured and beheaded before the end of the war, passing the power to Jose Maria Morelos, another priest who made the Mexican army more effective. Sadly, he was also beheaded. However the spirit of the revolution carried in the hearts of many Mexicans including Agustin de Iturbide, a Spanish-supporting soldier who flipped to become a leader in the Mexican independence movement. His leadership skills and the courageous hearts of the Mexican people ended the war leading to the official declaration of the country’s independence. Evidently followed times of hardships as the new nation continued to struggle to find an adequate system to govern it. However, the attitude and perseverance held by the rebels, made up mostly of crillo and poor natives, as they stood up to a global superpower is inspiring and worth celebrating.
Today?
On September the 16th, Mexico celebrates its successful fight for their own country, their home. Although independence was not obtained until a decade later on September 27, 1821,the nation proudly commemorates all those who fought for Mexico’s independence on the day Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla galvanized the people into action. Today, fireworks, fiestas, food, dances and music never lack on el 16 de septiembre. Red, white, and green are proudly worn and showcased everywhere. Whistles and horns are blown and confetti is thrown as “!Viva Mexico!” is proudly exclaimed throughout the nation. Schools and businesses are closed on this national holiday. It is truly an occasion to experience. !Viva Mexico!