2025.09.27 – Miguel Hidalgo and the Beginning of Mexico’s Independence

Summary

On 16 September 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla launched the Mexican independence movement with the Grito de Dolores. His call to arms inspired a struggle that lasted eleven years and culminated in the end of Spanish colonial rule in 1821. The date remains central to Mexico’s national identity and is marked by annual civic and cultural commemorations.

Context and Scope

This account covers the origins of Mexico’s Independence Day, the events of 16 September 1810, and the leaders, actions, and outcomes associated with the war of independence. It also explains how these events are remembered and celebrated in modern Mexico.

Exhaustive Narrative of Facts

Independence Celebrations in September

Mexico officially celebrates its independence on 16 September, but cultural and civic activities extend throughout the month. Schools and communities organize festivals, dances, and public ceremonies. These events continue to reaffirm the importance of the struggle for freedom and unity that began in 1810.

The Grito de Dolores

In the early hours of 16 September 1810, Miguel Hidalgo, a parish priest in the town of Dolores, rang the church bells to summon the townspeople. He delivered what became known as the Grito de Dolores, calling for resistance against Spanish rule, denouncing injustice, and invoking the Virgin of Guadalupe as a unifying symbol. The exact words of his speech are not preserved.

Leaders and Supporters

Hidalgo was joined by key allies including Ignacio Allende, Juan Aldama, and José Mariano Abasolo. The movement gained momentum as peasants, mestizos (people of mixed ancestry), indigenous communities, and some criollos (people of Spanish descent born in the Americas) took up the cause.

First Actions of the Insurgency

Soon after the Grito, insurgent forces moved to Guanajuato, where they attacked the Alhóndiga de Granaditas on 28 September 1810. This confrontation marked one of the first major battles in the struggle for independence and demonstrated the insurgents’ growing strength.

Duration and Conclusion of the War

The war for independence stretched across eleven years. It concluded on 27 September 1821 when the Ejército Trigarante (Army of the Three Guarantees) entered Mexico City, securing the nation’s independence.

Modern Commemorations

Today, the evening of 15 September is marked by the reenactment of the Grito de Dolores at the National Palace in Mexico City, where the president rings a bell and shouts patriotic calls. Across the country, schools and communities celebrate with parades, dances, and civic events, reinforcing the memory of the independence struggle.

Practical Takeaways

• Mexico’s independence celebrations officially occur on 16 September but extend throughout September in practice.
• The Grito de Dolores of 1810 marked the beginning of the war for independence.
• The conflict lasted eleven years and ended on 27 September 1821 with the triumph of the Ejército Trigarante (Army of the Three Guarantees).
• Commemorations continue every year with civic events, cultural performances, and national ceremonies.