September 16: Independence Day in Mexico
Prayer Idea
Pray for the people and government of Mexico.
Map by Peter Hermes Furian / Shutterstock.com.
History Note
The modern country of Mexico has been home to many civilizations over the centuries, including the Olmec, Maya, and Mexica (Aztecs). Dozens of Indigenous groups still live in Mexico today with distinct languages and cultures.
The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century led to major changes for these Indigenous people groups. The Kingdom of New Spain, with its capital in Mexico City, eventually included a large portion of North America, from what is now the Western United States to Florida through Central America and many Caribbean Islands.
A movement for independence from Spain grew in the early 1800s. On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Roman Catholic priest, made a speech known as the “Grito de Dolores” (“Cry of Dolores”). This is considered the beginning of the Mexican War for Independence, and Mexico observes this date as its Independence Day.
The struggle continued for years until Mexico formally secured independence from Spain in 1821. Countries in Central America soon broke away from Mexico, and then a war with the United States led to a significant loss of territory. Antonio López de Santa Anna (1794-1876) was a major figure during Mexico’s early decades. After Napoleon III of France attempted to assert control over Mexico in the 1860s, the country continued its efforts to build its government and economy.
Today Mexico has over 130 million people. It is the largest and most populous country with a majority of Spanish speakers. About 90% of the people have Indigenous heritage. Nearly 80% of the population are members of the Roman Catholic Church and 11% belong to another Christian denomination.
People in Mexico City celebrate Independence Day on September 16, 2023. Photo by Gill_figueroa / Shutterstock.com.
Learn More
Watch footage from the 2024 Independence Day celebration in Mexico City.
Find more resources at Homeschool History.
