Mexico’s Dia de Independencia, or Independence Day, is a vibrant and historically significant holiday celebrated every September 16th. This day marks the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores (“Grito de Dolores”), a pivotal event that ignited the Mexican War of Independence in 1810. For Mexicans, both within the country and around the world, Dia de Independencia is a time for patriotic expression, communal festivities, and reflection on the nation’s hard-fought journey to sovereignty. This article delves into the history of this important day, exploring its origins, key figures, and the lively traditions that continue to define Mexican Independence Day celebrations.
The Dawn of Independence: Hidalgo’s Cry for Freedom
The story of Dia de Independencia begins in the early hours of September 16, 1810, in the small town of Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato. It was here that Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, made a momentous decision that would alter the course of Mexican history. Frustrated by the injustices of Spanish colonial rule, Hidalgo rang the church bells, summoning the townspeople. Instead of the usual call to mass, Hidalgo issued a passionate call to arms, urging them to rise up against the Spanish colonial government. This rallying cry, known as the “Grito de Dolores,” was not a formal declaration of independence, but rather an impassioned plea for rebellion against what Hidalgo deemed “bad government.” His words resonated deeply, mobilizing a diverse group of Mexicans, including indigenous people, mestizos, and criollos, to join the fight for self-determination.
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla ringing the bell in Dolores Hidalgo to initiate the Mexican War of Independence.
The War for Independence: A Decade of Struggle
The “Grito de Dolores” marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence, a protracted and arduous conflict that lasted for over a decade. Initially, the movement was led by Miguel Hidalgo, who, despite lacking military experience, galvanized a large following. Armed with fervor and a banner of the Virgin of Guadalupe, Hidalgo’s forces achieved some early victories but were ultimately defeated at the Battle of Puente de Calderón in January 1811. Hidalgo was captured and executed, but his spark of rebellion had ignited a flame that could not be extinguished.
Leadership of the independence movement then passed to José María Morelos y Pavón, another priest who proved to be a brilliant military strategist. Morelos led the insurgency with greater organization and strategic vision, campaigning effectively in the south of Mexico. He convened the first independent congresses, further solidifying the movement’s political aims. Tragically, Morelos too was eventually captured and executed in 1815. Despite these setbacks, the fight for independence continued, with figures like Vicente Guerrero and Guadalupe Victoria sustaining the struggle. Querétaro played a crucial role in the early stages of the independence movement, serving as a hotbed of conspiratorial activity and nurturing key figures like Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, “La Corregidora,” and Ignacio Allende.
The Triumph of Independence: 1821 and a New Nation
By 1821, the landscape had shifted. Agustín de Iturbide, a royalist military leader, switched allegiance and joined forces with Vicente Guerrero. Iturbide promulgated the Plan of Iguala, also known as the Plan of the Three Guarantees, which proposed an independent Mexico, a constitutional monarchy, and the preservation of Catholic Church privileges. This plan garnered broad support, uniting various factions. The Treaty of Córdoba, signed in August 1821, officially recognized Mexico’s independence from Spain. On September 27, 1821, the Army of the Three Guarantees, led by Iturbide and Guerrero, triumphantly entered Mexico City, marking the culmination of the War of Independence and the birth of a new nation.
Commemorating Dia de Independencia Today: A National Celebration
Dia de Independencia is one of the most joyous and widely celebrated holidays in Mexico. Across the country, cities and towns erupt in patriotic fervor. The celebrations reach their peak on the night of September 15th, culminating in reenactments of the “Grito de Dolores.” In Mexico City’s Zócalo, the President of Mexico rings the historic Bell of Dolores, which was originally used by Hidalgo in 1810, and recites a version of the “Grito,” shouting “Viva México!” three times, echoing Hidalgo’s call for freedom. Millions gather in plazas nationwide and in Mexican communities around the world to witness similar reenactments led by local officials.
The festivities are characterized by vibrant displays of Mexican pride. The colors of the Mexican flag – green, white, and red – are ubiquitous, adorning buildings, clothing, and decorations. Traditional Mexican music, food, and dance fill the air. Families and friends come together to celebrate with parades, fireworks, and parties that often last late into the night. Dia de Independencia is not just a historical commemoration; it is a living expression of Mexican identity, unity, and national pride.
Interesting Facts about Mexican Independence Day
- Mexico actually has two Acts of Independence. The first, signed on September 28, 1821, declared Mexico an Empire. After Emperor Iturbide’s fall in 1823, a second act was issued, establishing Mexico as a Republic.
- The very bell that Hidalgo rang in Dolores was moved to Palacio Nacional in Mexico City in 1896 by order of President Porfirio Díaz so he could ring the original bell during that year’s celebrations.
- Miguel Hidalgo’s full name was Miguel Gregorio Antonio Ignacio Hidalgo y Costilla y Gallaga Mondarte Villaseñor, a testament to the naming conventions of the time.
- José María Morelos became a priest at the age of 24 to receive an inheritance from his great-grandfather, Pedro Pérez Pavón.
- In 1823, the remains of Hidalgo, Allende, Aldama, and Jiménez, key figures of the early independence movement, were exhumed and eventually moved to the base of the Independence Column in Mexico City in 1926.
- Spain did not officially recognize Mexico’s independence until 1836, fifteen years after it was declared.
Dia de Independencia is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and determination that shaped the Mexican nation. It is a day to celebrate freedom, honor history, and embrace the vibrant culture of Mexico. As families gather and “Viva México!” echoes through the streets, the spirit of independence, ignited by Hidalgo’s cry so many years ago, continues to burn brightly in the hearts of Mexicans everywhere.
