Mexico and Spain

Mexico was conquered by the Spanish in

the 1500s and renamed “New Spain.”

The Native peoples, including Aztecs

and Mayans, were forced to become
slaves. Often, they were treated
poorly.
 Mexico and Spain
In the 1800s, a priest
named Father Hidalgo
wanted to fight for freedom
for the mistreated people.

He planned a revolt against the Spanish and

had many followers. His revolt was planned
for October 2, 1810.

The Spanish found out about this plan, so Father Hidalgo

decided to change his revolt to an earlier time.
 Cry for Independence

Viva la Independencia
Grito de Delores.

On the evening of September 15, 1810, Father

Hidalgo rallied his followers.

He delivered a famous speech called “Grito de

Delores.” In this speech, he shouted “Viva Mexico!”
and “Viva la Independencia!”

These became famous rallying cries for the Mexican War of

Independence.
 War of Independence

The revolt for independence began on September 16, 1810.

Father Hidalgo was put to death.

Finally, after years of fighting, Mexico gained its independence

from Spain in 1821.
 Independence
Mexicans
elected their
first president
in 1823, due to
their new
independence.
Today,
celebrations for
Each year, the Mexican
Mexican president Independence Day
delivers a speech begin on
similar to Father September 15 and
Hidalgo’s “Grito de last through
Delores.” September 16.
 Celebrating

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated with

parties, fireworks, parades, and food.

Many in Mexico have Mexican Independence

Day off of work and school.

People all around the world celebrate, especially

cities with large populations of people with
Mexican heritage.