Mexican War for Independence--”The Cry of Dolores”
Note: Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Mexican priest, became famous for his “Cry of Dolores” speech he delivered on September 16, 1810. With this speech he encouraged Mexicans to rise up and throw off Spanish rule, which launched the Mexican War of Independence.
Vocabulary words to know:
Tributes- payment to a conquering power
Tyranny- cruel use of power
Patria- fatherland; the native land of a person’s ancestors
Imperative-absolutely necessary
“My friends and countrymen: neither the king nor tributes exist for us any longer. We have borne this shameful tax, which only suits slaves, for three centuries as a sign of tyranny and servitude; [a] terrible stain which we shall know how to wash away with our efforts. The moment of our freedom has arrived; the hour of our liberty has struck; and if you recognized its great value, you will help me defend it from the ambitious grasp of the tyrants [oppressive rulers]. Only a few hours remain before you see me at the head of the men who take pride in being free. I invite you to fulfill this obligation. And so without a patria nor liberty we shall always be at a great distance from true happiness. It has be
Directions: Answer the following questions about the source in COMPLETE sentences.
1. Is this a primary or secondary source?
2. What is the purpose of this source (why was this source created)?
3. What does Hidalgo mean when he says, “neither the king nor tributes exist for us any longer?”
4. Who are the tyrants Hidalgo refers to? Why does he use this term?
5. Based on this excerpt, what do you think Father Hidalgo thought about war? What were his opinions about war?
6. Why do you think this speech urged Mexican citizens to fight for their independence from Spain?