Mexican War of Independence

Definition

The Mexican War of Independence was a revolutionary conflict that lasted from 1810 to 1821, resulting in Mexico's independence from Spanish colonial rule. This war marked a significant shift in power and governance in the region, laying the foundation for the establishment of Mexican authority and identity as a sovereign nation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war officially began on September 16, 1810, and was characterized by several key battles and shifting alliances among various factions fighting for independence.
2. The conflict involved various social classes, including indigenous peoples, mestizos, and criollos (Mexican-born Spaniards), all united in their desire for freedom from Spanish rule.
3. The culmination of the war came with the signing of the Plan of Iguala in 1821, which established the terms for independence and laid out principles for governance.
4. The Mexican War of Independence was influenced by broader global movements, including the Enlightenment and other independence movements in Latin America and Europe.
5. After achieving independence, Mexico faced significant challenges, including political instability and conflicts over governance, leading to further struggles in establishing a cohesive national identity.

Review Questions

• How did Miguel Hidalgo's actions influence the start of the Mexican War of Independence?
  • Miguel Hidalgo's actions were pivotal in igniting the Mexican War of Independence. His famous call to arms, known as the Grito de Dolores, urged Mexicans to rise against Spanish colonial authorities. This rallying cry united various social classes who were discontented with Spanish rule and set off a series of uprisings that defined the early years of the independence movement.
• Evaluate the role of Agustín de Iturbide in both the independence movement and the subsequent establishment of Mexican authority.
  • Agustín de Iturbide played a complex role in Mexico's transition from colonial rule to independence. Initially opposing independence efforts, he shifted sides and became a central figure in negotiating terms for liberation. His leadership culminated in the Plan of Iguala, which outlined key principles for Mexico's governance post-independence. However, his eventual declaration as emperor illustrated the ongoing struggle for stable leadership and governance after independence was achieved.
• Analyze how external influences contributed to both the onset and outcomes of the Mexican War of Independence.
  • External influences significantly shaped both the initiation and consequences of the Mexican War of Independence. The Enlightenment ideals advocating for liberty and equality inspired many revolutionaries within Mexico. Additionally, the successful independence movements occurring across Latin America demonstrated a viable path toward self-determination. These factors fostered a climate ripe for rebellion against colonial rule, but they also left Mexico grappling with post-war challenges like political fragmentation and differing visions for nationhood that would shape its future.

Related terms

Miguel Hidalgo: A Roman Catholic priest and revolutionary leader who is considered the father of Mexican independence; he issued the Grito de Dolores, calling for an end to Spanish rule.

Grito de Dolores: A call to arms made by Miguel Hidalgo on September 16, 1810, that sparked the Mexican War of Independence and rallied many people to fight against Spanish oppression.

Agustín de Iturbide:

A military leader who initially fought against the independence movement but later joined it; he played a key role in the final stages of the war and became the first emperor of independent Mexico.