September marks the commemoration of the independence for several Latin American countries, including Mexico. But what does “independence” actually mean? It refers to the revolutions for independence fought by Latin American nations to break free from European rule and, in doing so, dismantle the viceroyalty system. These systems were controlling labor, land, property, and the government. European control began in 1494 with the signing of the Treaty of Tordesillas, which granted Spain and Portugal possession and control over vast territories in the American continent.
Historical Context of Independence in Latin America
Creoles, mestizos; and even more Indigenous peoples, mulattos, and Black populations faced significant disadvantages compared to the Spaniards. These inequalities sowed the seeds of a movement for freedom, inspired by factors such as the Enlightenment movement, that advocated for equality, liberty, and self-governance. Other key influences were the French Revolution (1789) and the independence of the United States (1776), both of which demonstrated that monarchical and imperial systems could be overthrown. Napoleon’s 1808 invasion of Spain was another crucial factor, casting doubt on the legitimacy of Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas. Regarding the internal situation, and as previously mentioned, profound social inequality marginalized Creoles, mestizos, Indigenous peoples, mulattos, and people of African descent; and a royal decree in 1767 expelled the Jesuits from the Americas; this action helped trigger uprisings in Guanajuato and Michoacán, in the territory of New Spain.
The Independence Process
Each country underwent its own independence process, shaped by local circumstances. Across the region, ideas of independence were spread by figures who remain iconic in Latin American history. Simón Bolívar led the movement in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia; José de San Martín achieved this in Argentina, Chile, and Peru; in Brazil, it was Pedro I who proclaimed independence. In the case of Mexico, it was on September 16 that Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued the well-known “Grito de Dolores” in Guanajuato, sparking the War of Independence, which concluded in 1821.
How can we understand independence today, beyond mere historical facts?
It is important to reflect on the origins of our countries and the legacy we have inherited. Analyzing and reflecting on this is essential for examining our current situation, and for making necessary changes by ourselves. For instance, we can start consuming domestic products and prioritizing local shops or, in the United States, by supporting businesses owned by people from Mexico, Central America, or South America. We must unite against economic, social, political, culinary, and cultural colonization. We have to start somewhere to achieve development that lays the groundwork for future generations, fostering love for our culture, the value of protecting it, and the importance of unity to work together and preserve the heritage of Latin American nations.
