The Lady Behind The Independence

Happy Independence Day!

Early in the morning of the 16th of September, 1810, the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave his Grito de Dolores – Cry of Dolores, from the town of Dolores, Mexico.  It was a speech that really did change the course of history, being a part of the string of events that led to Mexico’s independence from Spain.

As is the case with any country, the history of Mexico is complex and simply must be oversimplified in popular culture.  For example, you might not realize that Hidalgo actually called for loyalty to – Ferdinand VII, King of Spain.  Well, former King of Spain – at the time he was under guard, having abdicated in favour of Napolean.  But that’s another story.

Suffice to say Hidalgo was not entirely calling for a new nation, but for the old one renewed.  Loyalty to the real Spain, and to the people of Mexico – especially those actually born in Mexico.

Photo courtesy of Alex Covarrubias

He also picked up a banner that was to greatly influence the history of the country.  The Standard of the Virgin of Guadalupe became a symbol of Mexico, and Guadalupe was often credited with the victory of the winning side.  Mexico’s first president changed his name to Guadalupe Victoria accordingly.

Guadalupe is believed to be a manifestation of Mary the Mother of Jesus.  But to assume that Guadalupe is simply Mary would be a mistake.

The Virgin of Guadalupe has become such a part of Mexico, that many would say you simply cannot be Mexican without loyalty to Guadalupe.  She’s a particular apparition, dark-skinned, with a special love for Mexico.  She’s not the same as the other Marian apparitions – she is the mother of Mexico.

How many images of her can you find in Ixtapaluca?  Dozens?  No – hundreds – thousands – even more.  Overshadowing various images of saints and Jesus, she rules without equal, by all appearances.

Statue of Guadalupe in Ixtapaluca
ready for Independence Day
There are many fiestas for Mexican’s Independence, as people remember their freedom, their unique culture, their beautiful country.  But in most of those celebrations you’ll see the Virgin of Guadalupe, continuing to play a role in the hearts and minds of the Mexican people.

For more, click the link above and also this article.