Viva la independencia mexicana!

The Flag of the United Mexican States
Estados Unidos Mexicanos

September 16th is a special day for all of us in the Americas as our

neighbor Mexico celebrates  Independence Day, commonly known as el 16 de septiembre.  Enjoy the diverse voices of people from throughout Mexico as they celebrate their beautiful and beloved nation.

Spanish	English Translation
México lindo y querido Si muero lejos de ti Que digan que estoy dormido Y que me traigan aquí	Lovely, beloved Mexico If I die far from you May they say that I'm asleep And may they bring me back here[3

What is Mexican Independence Day, and why is important to the people of the Americas?
Mexico was ruled by Spain for hundreds of years. Sadly, the Mexican people did not have equal rights with their Spanish rulers. Many Mexican people were treated almost like slaves. How did the Mexican people get their independence?
One tradition that takes place in Mexico is known as "el grito."  View a grito from the National Palace in Mexico City.


How did the grito get started? Read about a hero of Mexican Independence, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. Be prepared to recreate Father Hidalgo's speech, a speech that started a revolution and freed millions of people.