The Road to Mexico's Independence: A History

Mexico’s independence is a defining moment in its history, marking the beginning of a new era for the nation. The road to independence was full of struggles, sacrifices, and political upheavals that shaped the country we know today. This article takes a comprehensive look at the events and key figures that led to Mexico’s independence.

The journey to independence can be traced back to 1519, when the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes arrived in Mexico. With the aim of colonizing the territory and exploiting its resources, Cortes and his army conquered the powerful Aztec Empire in 1521. For the next three centuries, Mexico remained under Spanish rule.

However, the ideas of the Enlightenment and the American and French revolutions began to influence the Mexican society. News about the successful uprisings against colonial powers inspired Mexican intellectuals and ignited a desire for independence. Moreover, social inequalities and economic exploitation further fueled the resentment among the masses.

One of the key figures in Mexico’s road to independence was Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. A Catholic priest, Hidalgo is considered the father of Mexican independence. On the night of September 15, 1810, Hidalgo issued the famous “Grito de Dolores,” a cry for freedom that rallied the Mexican people against their Spanish oppressors. This event, known as the Cry of Dolores, marked the beginning of the War of Independence.

Although Hidalgo’s initial efforts were met with some success, his movement was ultimately defeated by the Spanish army. However, his contributions to Mexico’s fight for independence cannot be overstated, as his actions set the stage for future leaders and nationalists.

Following Hidalgo’s death, other leaders emerged to carry on the fight for independence. One of these leaders was Jose Maria Morelos. A priest and military strategist, Morelos organized an organized resistance movement and declared independence in 1813 through the creation of a constitution for the new nation. However, like Hidalgo, Morelos was also captured and executed by Spanish forces.

The War of Independence continued with various ups and downs. It wasn’t until 1820, when political changes occurred in Spain, that the independence movement gained momentum. The liberal policies implemented in Spain, such as equal rights for all Spanish subjects, created an opportunity for Mexican nationalists to push for independence. Inspired by these policies, Mexican elites and army officers began to plan for a final push towards independence.

Finally, on September 27, 1821, the Mexican independence was achieved through the signing of the Treaty of Cordoba. This treaty recognized Mexico as an independent nation, marking the end of Spanish colonial rule. The road to independence was long and arduous, filled with years of armed conflicts, political negotiations, and sacrifice.

Mexico’s independence brought about significant changes and challenges for the newly formed nation. The process of nation-building was fraught with the need to establish a stable government, define borders, and deal with regional differences. It took several years for Mexico to solidify its national identity and establish a political system that could effectively govern the diverse population.

In conclusion, the road to Mexico’s independence was a complex and tumultuous journey. The vision and determination of leaders like Hidalgo, Morelos, and others paved the way for a free and independent Mexico. Today, Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16th, honoring the bravery and sacrifices of its founding fathers who fought for liberty and self-determination.