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named Miguel Hidalgo urged his parish in the central Mexican town of Dolores to fight for independence from Spain. His speech, called the “Cry of Dolores,” galvanized the people, and soon the movement grew to include inhabitants of many backgrounds. After a long struggle, this united front of Mexicans secured their independence in 1821. FREEDOM FIGHTER Miguel Hidalgo was born in Pénjamo, Mexico, to Spanish parents. After his famous speech, he marched with military commander Ignacio Allende through the neighboring area to rally troops. Though his hope for an independent Mexico was ultimately achieved, it was not without cost: in addition to the many lives lost on both sides during the fight, Hidalgo himself was executed in 1811 by the Spanish authorities.

A painting at the Miguel Hidalgo memorial in the government palace of Chihuahua, in northern Mexico.

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CHAPTER ONE: HISTORY, RELIGION, AND TRADITION