Hidalgo and the Independence Movement

The Wars for Independence: Hidalgo and Early Success

• Hidalgo was born in 1753 to a criollo family in Guanajuato.
• He spent his early years on a hacienda and studied at Jesuit and diocesan colleges in Valladolid.
• Hidalgo earned a bachelor's degree in 1774 and became a priest in 1778.
• He taught at the Colegio of San Nicolás Obispo and eventually became the rector.
• Hidalgo faced scrutiny from the Inquisition due to unorthodox views and suspected deviations from orthodoxy.
• In 1803, Hidalgo became the curate of Dolores in Guanajuato.
• He prioritized improving the economic lives of his parishioners, introducing new industries like tile making.
• A group of revolutionaries, including Hidalgo, Allende, and Domínguez, formed a "literary club" to discuss reforms to local economies.
• The group planned an uprising for December 8, 1810, aiming for Mexican independence.
• Marino Galván, a postal clerk, leaked the planned revolt, alerting the Spanish authorities.

The Grito de Dolores

• On September 16, 1810, Hidalgo rang the church bells, calling his parishioners to mass and announcing the revolt.
• He addressed his parishioners and urged them to fight for independence, inspiring the Indians and mestizos.
• This event is known as the Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores).
• Hidalgo's force, consisting of poorly armed Indians and mestizos, captured San Miguel.
• Many Spanish citizens were killed in Guanajuato.
• The rebels moved toward Mexico City, facing strong opposition.
• Hidalgo's army gained support from various groups, including indigenous people and mestizos.

Hidalgo's Capture and Death

• Hidalgo's forces faced heavy losses in battles, including those at Las Cruces, and began to retreat, losing many troops.
• Hidalgo and Allende were caught and executed in 1811.
• Hidalgo's execution was intended as a warning to potential rebels.
• His execution was carried out following a trial by the Inquisition.
• His head was placed on display in Guanajuato.

Morelos and the Rebellion's Continuation

• After Hidalgo's death, José María Morelos took leadership of the independence movement.
• Morelos formulated a plan of action for the revolutionaries.
• Morelos called for a congress to meet in Chilpancingo, to discuss plans for the nation.
• The congress formalized independence and outlined a new constitution.
• Morelos' forces faced numerous setbacks and were eventually defeated.
• He was captured and executed in 1815.

The Aftermath and Guerrilla Warfare

• The independence movement continued through guerrilla warfare, employing hit-and-run tactics.
• Small bands of insurgents often dominated rural areas.
• Spanish attempts at counterinsurgency proved difficult.
• Several leaders, including Guadalupe Victoria and Vicente Guerrero, emerged.

The Plan de Iguala and Iturbide's Role

• Agustín de Iturbide, a former royalist officer, formed the Plan de Iguala.
• This plan sought an amicable resolution to the conflict.
• The proposed plan included the abolition of caste systems, universal male suffrage, and religious freedom.
• It also offered the Mexican throne to a suitable European prince, or, in its absence, a Mexican.
• Iturbide became a leader, uniting conservative and liberal forces.
• A treaty was signed, recognizing Mexican independence.