When Did The Independence Of Mexico Start?

Mexico’s independence is a significant event in its history, and understanding when it began is crucial for appreciating Mexican culture. Gaymexico.net is here to guide you through this historical period. The start of the Independence of Mexico sparked transformative change and shaped the nation we know today.

1. What Triggered the Start of the Mexican Independence?

The Mexican Independence War began with El Grito de Dolores (The Cry of Dolores) on September 16, 1810, when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, called upon the people to fight for independence. This event is widely regarded as the starting point of the Mexican Independence.

Background: Several factors contributed to the uprising. The Spanish colonial system favored the peninsulares (Spanish-born elites), marginalizing the criollos (American-born Spaniards), mestizos (mixed Spanish and Indigenous ancestry), and Indigenous populations. Enlightenment ideas of liberty and equality, coupled with economic grievances, fueled discontent.
Miguel Hidalgo’s Role: Hidalgo, a parish priest in Dolores, Guanajuato, was a key figure in the independence movement. He was part of a secret society that planned to overthrow the Spanish colonial government. When their plans were discovered, Hidalgo decided to act, delivering his famous “Grito de Dolores” that ignited the rebellion.
“El Grito de Dolores”: The “Grito” was a passionate call to arms, urging the people to fight for freedom and justice. While the exact words of Hidalgo’s speech are debated, its essence was a call for an end to Spanish rule and the establishment of a new, independent nation. The speech resonated deeply with the masses, who were eager for change.

Miguel Hidalgo's Call to Arms

2. What Were the Initial Events Following the Cry of Dolores?

Following the Cry of Dolores, the initial events included a rapid mobilization of the populace and early military engagements against Spanish forces. The movement quickly gained traction but also faced significant challenges.

Mass Mobilization: Hidalgo’s call to arms was met with an enthusiastic response. Thousands of people, primarily Indigenous and mestizo peasants, joined the rebellion. Armed with rudimentary weapons, they formed a formidable force driven by a desire for change.
Early Victories: The rebel army achieved initial successes, capturing towns and cities as they advanced. Their early victories boosted morale and attracted more followers, but they were often short-lived due to the rebels’ lack of military training and equipment.
Challenges and Setbacks: Despite early gains, the independence movement faced numerous challenges. The Spanish colonial government responded with military force, and the rebels suffered significant defeats. Internal divisions and a lack of clear leadership also hampered their efforts.
Hidalgo’s Capture and Execution: One of the most significant setbacks was the capture and execution of Miguel Hidalgo in 1811. After being defeated at the Battle of Calderón Bridge, Hidalgo and other rebel leaders were captured by Spanish forces. Hidalgo was executed on July 30, 1811, but his death did not extinguish the flame of independence.
Impact of Early Events: The initial events following the Cry of Dolores set the stage for a long and arduous struggle for independence. The early mobilization and military engagements demonstrated the widespread desire for change, while the challenges and setbacks highlighted the difficulties the rebels would face.

3. Who Were the Key Figures After Hidalgo in the Independence Movement?

After Miguel Hidalgo’s death, key figures such as José María Morelos, Vicente Guerrero, and Agustín de Iturbide played crucial roles in continuing and ultimately securing Mexico’s independence. These leaders brought different strategies and perspectives to the movement.

José María Morelos: A priest and former student of Hidalgo, Morelos emerged as a brilliant military strategist. He organized and disciplined the rebel army, achieving significant victories in the south of Mexico. Morelos also articulated a clear vision for an independent Mexico, advocating for social and political reforms.
- Military Campaigns: Morelos led successful campaigns, capturing key cities and regions. His military tactics and leadership skills earned him the respect of his followers and the fear of his enemies.
- Political Vision: Morelos convened the Congress of Anáhuac in 1813, which issued the “Solemn Act of the Declaration of Independence of Northern America,” formally declaring Mexico’s independence. He also advocated for the abolition of slavery and the redistribution of land.
- Execution: Like Hidalgo, Morelos was eventually captured and executed by Spanish forces in 1815.
Vicente Guerrero: After Morelos’s death, Guerrero became a prominent leader, continuing the fight in southern Mexico. He was a skilled military commander and a staunch advocate for independence, refusing to negotiate with the Spanish colonial government.
- Guerrilla Warfare: Guerrero primarily employed guerrilla warfare tactics, leading small, mobile units that harassed Spanish forces. His resilience and determination kept the independence movement alive during a difficult period.
- Alliance with Iturbide: Guerrero’s eventual alliance with Agustín de Iturbide proved crucial to securing independence.
Agustín de Iturbide: Initially a Royalist officer fighting against the rebels, Iturbide switched sides in 1820. He negotiated with Guerrero and other rebel leaders, uniting their forces under the Plan of Iguala, which called for independence, equality, and the preservation of the Catholic Church.
- Plan of Iguala: The Plan of Iguala was a compromise that appealed to both conservatives and liberals. It offered independence while maintaining some of the existing social and political structures.
- Army of the Three Guarantees: Iturbide formed the Army of the Three Guarantees, which quickly gained control of Mexico. In 1821, he signed the Treaty of Córdoba with the Spanish viceroy, formally recognizing Mexico’s independence.

4. What Were the Main Stages of the Mexican Independence War?

The Mexican Independence War can be divided into several main stages, each marked by distinct events, leaders, and strategies. Understanding these stages provides a comprehensive view of the war’s progression.

First Stage (1810-1811): Hidalgo’s Leadership: This stage was characterized by the initial uprising led by Miguel Hidalgo. It began with the Cry of Dolores and saw the rapid mobilization of a large but poorly equipped rebel army. Key events included early victories, such as the capture of Guanajuato, and subsequent defeats, culminating in Hidalgo’s capture and execution.
Second Stage (1811-1815): Morelos’s Leadership: Following Hidalgo’s death, José María Morelos took command, transforming the rebel forces into a more organized and disciplined army. This stage was marked by significant military campaigns in the south of Mexico and the articulation of a clear political vision for an independent nation. The Congress of Anáhuac and the Declaration of Independence were key achievements, but Morelos was eventually captured and executed.
Third Stage (1815-1820): Guerrilla Warfare and Stalemate: After Morelos’s death, the independence movement fragmented, with various guerrilla leaders continuing the fight in different regions. This stage was characterized by a stalemate, with neither the rebels nor the Spanish colonial government able to gain a decisive advantage. Vicente Guerrero emerged as a prominent guerrilla leader during this period.
Fourth Stage (1820-1821): Independence Achieved: This final stage was triggered by political changes in Spain, which led Agustín de Iturbide to switch sides and seek an alliance with the rebels. The Plan of Iguala united the rebel and Royalist forces, leading to the formation of the Army of the Three Guarantees. The Treaty of Córdoba formally recognized Mexico’s independence, and the Army of the Three Guarantees entered Mexico City in triumph.

5. When Was the Treaty of Córdoba Signed and What Did It Stipulate?

The Treaty of Córdoba was signed on August 24, 1821, and it formally recognized Mexico’s independence from Spain. It stipulated the establishment of an independent Mexican Empire.

Negotiations: The treaty was negotiated between Agustín de Iturbide, representing the Mexican forces, and Juan O’Donojú, the Spanish viceroy. O’Donojú recognized the impossibility of suppressing the independence movement and agreed to negotiate a peaceful transfer of power.
Key Provisions: The treaty affirmed the Plan of Iguala, which called for an independent Mexico to be a constitutional monarchy. It stipulated that the Mexican throne would be offered first to a member of the Spanish royal family, but if no European prince accepted, the Mexican Congress could choose its own emperor. The treaty also guaranteed the rights and privileges of all residents of Mexico, regardless of their origin.
Significance: The Treaty of Córdoba marked the end of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico and the beginning of a new era of independence. It provided a framework for the establishment of a new Mexican government and paved the way for the creation of a sovereign nation.
Aftermath: Although the treaty recognized Mexico’s independence, the country faced numerous challenges in the years that followed. Political instability, economic difficulties, and social divisions plagued the new nation. The Mexican Empire, under Agustín de Iturbide, proved short-lived, and Mexico eventually became a republic.

6. What Role Did the Roman Catholic Church Play During the Mexican Independence?

The Roman Catholic Church played a complex and multifaceted role during the Mexican Independence War, with different members of the clergy taking different stances. Some priests, like Miguel Hidalgo and José María Morelos, were leaders of the independence movement, while others remained loyal to the Spanish Crown.

Clergy as Leaders: Miguel Hidalgo and José María Morelos were both priests who played crucial roles in leading the independence movement. They used their influence and authority within the Church to rally support for the cause of independence. Their religious beliefs and values were intertwined with their desire for social and political change.
Support for Independence: Many members of the lower clergy, particularly those who sympathized with the criollos and the Indigenous population, supported the independence movement. They provided moral and material support to the rebels, using their churches as safe havens and communication centers.
Loyalty to the Crown: The higher echelons of the Church, including bishops and archbishops, generally remained loyal to the Spanish Crown. They feared the potential loss of their power and privileges if Mexico became independent. They condemned the rebellion and excommunicated Hidalgo and Morelos.
Impact on the Church: The Mexican Independence War had a profound impact on the Catholic Church in Mexico. The war divided the clergy, weakened the Church’s authority, and led to a reevaluation of its role in society. In the years following independence, the Church faced challenges to its landholdings and privileges.
Compromise: According to the Plan of Iguala, drafted by Agustín de Iturbide stated that Roman Catholic Church would remain the state religion of Mexico, so that was a compromise that allowed people to find common ground for independence.

7. How Did the Fight for Independence Affect the Indigenous Populations?

The fight for independence had a mixed impact on the Indigenous populations of Mexico. While the movement initially promised to address their grievances, the reality was more complex and often disappointing.

Initial Support: Indigenous populations initially supported the independence movement, drawn by the promise of land redistribution, the abolition of tribute payments, and an end to discrimination. Hidalgo’s Cry of Dolores resonated deeply with Indigenous communities, who had long suffered under Spanish colonial rule.
Mobilization: Indigenous people formed a significant part of the rebel armies, fighting alongside criollos and mestizos. They brought their knowledge of the land and their fighting skills to the struggle.
Post-Independence Disillusionment: After independence, many of the promises made to Indigenous communities were not fulfilled. Land redistribution was slow and limited, tribute payments were often replaced by other forms of taxation, and discrimination persisted. The new Mexican government, dominated by criollos, often prioritized the interests of the elite over the needs of the Indigenous population.
Continued Struggles: The Indigenous populations continued to struggle for their rights and autonomy in the decades following independence. They faced ongoing land disputes, economic exploitation, and political marginalization. Indigenous rebellions and uprisings continued to occur throughout the 19th century.

8. What Were the Economic Factors That Led to the Mexican Independence?

Economic factors played a significant role in fueling the Mexican Independence War. The Spanish colonial system imposed numerous restrictions on economic activity in Mexico. This created discontent among various segments of the population.

Mercantilism: The Spanish Crown implemented a mercantilist system that prioritized the economic interests of Spain over those of its colonies. This meant that Mexico was forced to export raw materials to Spain at low prices and import manufactured goods from Spain at high prices.
Trade Restrictions: The Spanish colonial government imposed strict trade restrictions on Mexico, preventing it from trading with other countries. This limited economic opportunities and stifled growth.
Taxation: The Spanish Crown imposed heavy taxes on the Mexican population, including the Indigenous population. These taxes were used to finance the Spanish government and its wars, placing a significant burden on the Mexican economy.
Economic Inequality: Economic inequality was rampant in colonial Mexico. The peninsulares, who held the highest positions in the government and the Church, controlled most of the wealth, while the criollos, mestizos, and Indigenous populations struggled to make a living.
Impact on Different Groups: These economic factors affected different groups in Mexican society in different ways. The criollos, who were wealthy landowners and merchants, resented the trade restrictions and high taxes imposed by the Spanish Crown. The mestizos and Indigenous populations, who were often employed as laborers, suffered from low wages and economic exploitation.

9. How Did Enlightenment Ideas Influence the Start of the Mexican Independence?

Enlightenment ideas of liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty profoundly influenced the start of the Mexican Independence War. These ideas, which spread throughout the world in the 18th and 19th centuries, provided a philosophical framework for challenging Spanish colonial rule.

Influence of Thinkers: Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu articulated ideas about natural rights, the social contract, and the separation of powers. These ideas resonated with criollos and other educated Mexicans who felt that the Spanish colonial government was unjust and oppressive.
Spread of Ideas: Enlightenment ideas spread to Mexico through books, pamphlets, and newspapers. They were discussed in secret societies, literary salons, and universities.
Impact on the Independence Movement: Enlightenment ideas provided the intellectual justification for the independence movement. They inspired Mexican patriots to demand self-government, equality before the law, and the protection of individual rights.
Key Concepts: Key Enlightenment concepts that influenced the Mexican Independence War included:
- Natural Rights: The idea that all individuals are born with certain rights that cannot be taken away by the government.
- Social Contract: The idea that government is based on an agreement between the rulers and the ruled.
- Popular Sovereignty: The idea that political power ultimately resides in the people.

10. What is the Significance of September 16th in Mexico Today?

September 16th, the day of the Cry of Dolores, is Mexico’s Independence Day, a major national holiday celebrated with parades, festivals, and patriotic displays. It is a day to remember and honor the heroes who fought for Mexico’s independence.

Celebrations: Independence Day celebrations begin on the evening of September 15th, with the “Grito” ceremony. The President of Mexico, along with governors and mayors across the country, reenact the Cry of Dolores, shouting “Viva México” and ringing the bells of their respective government buildings.
Parades and Festivals: On September 16th, military parades are held in Mexico City and other major cities. Festivals, concerts, and cultural events take place throughout the country.
Patriotic Displays: Mexicans display their national pride by decorating their homes and businesses with flags, banners, and other patriotic symbols. The colors of the Mexican flag – green, white, and red – are prominent throughout the celebrations.
Remembrance and Reflection: Independence Day is also a time for Mexicans to reflect on their history and to remember the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence. It is a day to celebrate Mexican culture, identity, and sovereignty.

Understanding when the Independence of Mexico started, its key figures, main stages, and the factors that influenced it provides a comprehensive view of this pivotal moment in Mexican history. Explore gaymexico.net for more insights into Mexican culture and LGBTQ+ life in Mexico.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is the “Grito de Dolores” considered the start of the Mexican Independence?

The Grito de Dolores is considered the start because it was the first public call to arms by Miguel Hidalgo, igniting the rebellion against Spanish rule and marking the beginning of the independence movement. It united the people to fight the colonial government.

2. Who was Miguel Hidalgo and what was his role in the Mexican Independence?

Miguel Hidalgo was a Catholic priest who initiated the Mexican Independence War with the Grito de Dolores. He led the early rebellion and is considered the father of Mexican independence. He united people from all walks of life to fight for equality.

3. What were the main reasons for the Mexican people to seek independence from Spain?

The main reasons included social inequality, economic exploitation, and political marginalization of the criollos, mestizos, and Indigenous populations under Spanish colonial rule. These populations were restricted by the upper class peninsulares.

4. How long did the Mexican Independence War last?

The Mexican Independence War lasted for 11 years, from September 16, 1810, when the Grito de Dolores was proclaimed, until September 27, 1821, when the Army of the Three Guarantees entered Mexico City.

5. What was the significance of the Treaty of Córdoba in Mexico’s independence?

The Treaty of Córdoba, signed on August 24, 1821, officially recognized Mexico’s independence from Spain. It established the terms for the withdrawal of Spanish forces and the establishment of an independent Mexican Empire.

6. Who were the other notable leaders of the Mexican Independence movement besides Miguel Hidalgo?

Other notable leaders included José María Morelos, Vicente Guerrero, and Agustín de Iturbide. They each played critical roles in leading the independence movement after Hidalgo’s death.

7. How did the social classes in Mexico contribute to the cause of independence?

The criollos, mestizos, and Indigenous populations each contributed to the cause of independence by participating in the rebellion, providing resources, and supporting the movement’s goals of social and political equality.

8. What were some of the challenges faced by the Mexican Independence movement?

The challenges included internal divisions, lack of resources, military defeats, and the execution of key leaders such as Hidalgo and Morelos. Despite these challenges, the movement never died.

9. How did the end of the Mexican Independence War affect the future of Mexico?

The end of the war led to the establishment of an independent Mexican nation. However, it also brought new challenges such as political instability, economic difficulties, and social divisions that shaped Mexico’s future for decades to come.

10. What events are celebrated during the Independence Day festivities in Mexico?

Celebrations include the reenactment of the Grito de Dolores on the night of September 15th, followed by parades, festivals, concerts, and patriotic displays on September 16th, commemorating the start of the independence movement.