What are 5 facts about Mexico’s Independence Day?
Mexico’s Independence Day, also known as El Día de la Independencia, is a significant day in the country’s history, celebrated annually on September 16th. This day marks the beginning of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule. Here are five fascinating facts about this historic event:
1. The Grito de Dolores: The day’s festivities commemorates the Grito de Dolores, which is considered the birth of Mexico’s independence movement. On September 16, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Mexican priest, issued a call to arms in the town of Dolores, Guanajuato. This event is known as the Grito de Dolores and marked the start of the Mexican War of Independence.
2. The Battle of Puebla: On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, achieved a significant victory over the French army in the Battle of Puebla. This victory is celebrated as Cinco de Mayo, but it is also a part of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations, as it showcased the Mexican people’s resilience and determination to fight for their freedom.
3. The Flag of Mexico: The Mexican flag, which consists of three horizontal stripes of green, white, and red, with a red, five-pointed star in the center, was adopted on November 28, 1821. The green stripe represents independence, the white stripe signifies peace, and the red stripe symbolizes the blood shed by those who fought for Mexico’s freedom.
4. The National Anthem: “La Marcha Hidalguista” is the national anthem of Mexico, composed by Jaime Nuno in 1843. It was originally titled “La Marcha de Hidalgo” and was later renamed in honor of Father Miguel Hidalgo. The anthem is often played during Independence Day celebrations and is a symbol of national pride and unity.
5. The El Ángel de la Independencia: The El Ángel de la Independencia, also known as the Angel of Independence, is a colossal statue located at the entrance of the Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City. The statue, which was designed by architect Francisco Serrano Márquez, was unveiled on September 16, 1910, and has since become an iconic symbol of Mexico’s independence and freedom.
