Mexico Independence Day

September 16 marks Mexican Independence Day, a celebration of the historic moment in 1810 when Father Miguel Hidalgo, a priest and revolutionary leader, called for Mexico’s freedom from Spanish rule. The struggle for independence lasted 11 years, ultimately concluding on August 24, 1821, when Spain formally recognized Mexico’s independence by signing the Treaty of Córdoba. Each year, on the night of September 15, the president of Mexico delivers a speech from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City, echoing Hidalgo’s famous call for liberation, honoring the heroes of the independence movement, and ringing the same bell Hidalgo rang over 300 years ago.

When Is Mexican Independence Day?

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on September 16. On this national holiday, government offices, banks, and schools are closed to accommodate the many parades, civic ceremonies, and festivities held throughout the country.

The History of Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day marks the pivotal moment on September 16, 1810, when priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla urged Mexicans to rise against Spanish colonial rule. His famous “Grito de Dolores” speech, delivered in the town of Dolores, inspired people to join the movement for independence. Though this call sparked the revolution, Mexico would not achieve full independence from Spain until 1821.

In September 1810, Spanish authorities discovered a plan to launch a rebellion. On September 13, they raided the home of Emeterio González in Queretaro, uncovering a significant stockpile of weapons and ammunition. Upon hearing of his imminent arrest, Miguel Hidalgo acted swiftly, delivering the famous “Grito de Dolores” on the morning of September 16. His call to action garnered widespread support from the indigenous and mestizo communities, and he led his growing group of followers toward the town of San Miguel.

Mexican independence from Spain wasn’t a foregone conclusion, but events in Spain played a pivotal role in sparking the 1810 insurgency and shaping the conflict’s progression. In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of Spain created a legitimacy crisis when he forced King Charles IV to abdicate and placed his brother Joseph on the throne. In response, many parts of Spain and its overseas territories, including Mexico, established local juntas to govern in the name of the deposed Bourbon monarchy.

Representatives from Spain and its colonies convened in Cádiz, the last stronghold of Spanish rule, to draft the Spanish Constitution of 1812, which aimed to create a new political framework in the absence of the legitimate monarch. It sought to address the demands of American-born Spaniards (criollos) for more autonomy and equality with their Peninsular counterparts (peninsulares). This political restructuring, alongside deep-rooted cultural, religious, and racial tensions, significantly influenced the course of Mexico’s independence movement and the ensuing conflict.

Why did Mexico want independence from Spain

Economic Exploitation:

Spain heavily controlled Mexico’s economy, prioritizing the extraction of resources such as silver and gold. The wealth generated in Mexico was funneled back to Spain, while locals, especially the indigenous population, faced poverty and harsh working conditions. The economic policies were designed to benefit Spain, leaving little room for economic growth or prosperity for the colonies.

Social Inequality:

Mexican society was sharply divided along racial and class lines. Spanish-born elites (peninsulares) held the most power, while American-born Spaniards (criollos), indigenous people, mestizos (mixed-race), and African descendants were treated as second-class citizens or lower. The criollos, in particular, felt marginalized and resented their lack of political influence despite being born in the colonies.

Influence of Enlightenment Ideas:

The Enlightenment brought new political ideas that emphasized liberty, equality, and democracy. These ideas inspired many in Mexico to question Spain’s colonial rule and demand greater autonomy. Revolutionary movements in the United States (1776) and France (1789) also set an example, proving that colonial powers could be challenged.

Political Instability in Spain:

In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of Spain and the forced abdication of King Charles IV created political chaos. The legitimacy of Spanish rule in its colonies was undermined, providing an opportunity for Mexican revolutionaries to push for independence while Spain was weakened.

Resentment of Spanish Monarchy’s Policies:

Spain’s rigid control over political appointments, trade, and other aspects of governance angered many in Mexico, especially the criollos, who wanted more local autonomy and decision-making power.