Final answer:
Padre Miguel Hidalgo is noted for sparking the Mexican War of Independence with the 'Cry of Dolores' and is remembered as a national hero and the father of Mexican independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Padre Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla is noted for initiating the Mexican War of Independence with his famous Cry of Dolores. In 1810, he rang the church bells in the town of Dolores and called on the local population to rebel against Spanish colonial rule. This moment, known as the "Grito de Dolores" or "Cry of Dolores," sparked a massive uprising, primarily composed of landless peasants who were eager for social reform. Hidalgo's movement emphasized both political and social change, inspired by the flourishing ideas of the Enlightenment. Despite his initial success, Hidalgo was captured and executed for treason in 1811. However, his legacy endured, with Jose Maria Morelos taking over the insurrection. Today, Hidalgo is remembered as one of Mexico's greatest national heroes and the father of Mexican independence, with September 16th celebrated as Mexico's Independence Day.