Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month and its deep ties to Philadelphia

A look back at the Mexican War of Independence and its impact on our city

As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, it's important to remember the deep ties that Philadelphia has to Hispanic culture and history. One of the most significant events in Hispanic history, the Mexican War of Independence, has a direct connection to our city. Philadelphia citizens supported Mexico’s fight against tyranny and further strengthened the US’s own ideals of independence.

Philadelphia's role in the Mexican War of Independence

In the early 1800s, Mexico was a colony of Spain. In 1810, a group of Mexican revolutionaries led by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla began a war of independence against the Spanish. The war lasted for 11 years and resulted in Mexico's independence in 1821.

During the war, many Mexican refugees fled to Philadelphia. The city was a center of support for the Mexican cause, and many Philadelphians donated money and supplies to the revolutionaries. In 1816, a group of Mexican refugees founded the first Spanish-language newspaper in the United States, El Mensajero Semanal.

The Mexican War of Independence had a profound impact on Philadelphia. The city's support for the Mexican cause helped to strengthen the US's own ideals of independence. The war also helped to create a strong bond between Philadelphia and the Mexican community.

Today, Philadelphia’s relationship with Mexico continues to thrive

Today, Philadelphia is home to a large and vibrant Mexican community. The city has many Mexican restaurants, businesses, and cultural organizations. Philadelphia also has a strong relationship with Mexico City, the capital of Mexico. The two cities are sister cities, and they have a number of cultural and economic exchange programs.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our country. It is also a time to remember the deep ties that Philadelphia has to Hispanic culture and history. The Mexican War of Independence is just one example of the many ways that Hispanic Americans have shaped our city.

Conclusion

As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, let us remember the deep ties that Philadelphia has to Hispanic culture and history. Let us also celebrate the contributions that Hispanic Americans have made to our city.