September 16th is Mexican Independence Day

Celebrations, parades, and fireworks fill the air throughout Mexico on September 16th. This date commemorates Mexico’s independence from Spain. In Mexico City, the President recites the famous Grito de Delores while reenactments, festivals, and flags are proudly displayed throughout the country.

Until 1821, Mexico was sternly ruled by the Spanish. With Spaniards, as appose to native Creoles, controlling posts and limited trade opportunities, many Mexicans began to seek independence just like the United States decades earlier. When Napoleon invaded Spain, imprisoning Ferdinand VII, Mexico and other South American rebels created their own governments while still pledging loyalty to Spain.

With many prominent citizens, including Father Hidalgo serving as leaders, plans were made to seek independence. On September 16, 1810, Father Hidalgo stood at his pulpit in Delores and announced that they would take arms against the Spanish and all parishioners were invited to join him. Though his army was poorly armed, they were large in number and united for the cause. Marching towards Mexico City the rebels were able to siege Guanajuato and continue their fight to Mexico City. However, the rebel leaders fled and the army disbanded after reaching the capital city. Through many of Hidalgo’s successors and years of battle, an agreement was reached in September of 1821 granting Mexico independence from its mother country.

What better way to celebrate Mexican Independence day on September 16th than with dinner at Amigos?