It is a well known fact that many Latin American countries are big tourist spots; but did anyone ever think of how it all came to be?
Hispanic heritage is supposed to be celebrated from September 15th - October 15th, but many Hispanics reserve October for Dia de Los Muertos (Day of The Dead). This is because many Latin countries gained their independence from Spain during the month of September. The only countries that you can say are an exception are Puerto Rico (July 4) and Cuba (Oct.10). Since I identify as Mexican, that is the culture that I will be talking about the most.
Now it’s time to dig deeper into history. Mexico gained independence from Spain on September 16th 1810, and that’s the day that a lot of people celebrate their heritage. The only reason why Mexico got their independence was because they were a part of “La Guerra de Independencia de México” (Mexican War of Independence). This war took place from September 16 1810 – September 27 1821, now this seems weird because it shows that the war lasted for a little over 11 years, but Mexico had been under the control of Spain from 1521-1821. Now there is someone that commenced the war, and his name was Miguel Hidalgo Costilla (the George Washington of Mexico). See, this man was a priest, but not just some ordinary priest: he was literally considered as an icon with the people. The reason for this is because he helped convince people to be a part of the battle. This later made him the icon that he is today.
Now it’s time to dig deeper into history. Mexico gained independence from Spain on September 16th 1810, and that’s the day that a lot of people celebrate their heritage. The only reason why Mexico got their independence was because they were a part of “La Guerra de Independencia de México” (Mexican War of Independence). This war took place from September 16 1810 – September 27 1821, now this seems weird because it shows that the war lasted for a little over 11 years, but Mexico had been under the control of Spain from 1521-1821. Now there is someone that commenced the war, and his name was Miguel Hidalgo Costilla (the George Washington of Mexico). See, this man was a priest, but not just some ordinary priest: he was literally considered as an icon with the people. The reason for this is because he helped convince people to be a part of the battle. This later made him the icon that he is today.
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So now that we all know a little bit about the history, let’s talk about traditions that we have to celebrate this special month in the U.S. Most people usually just plan a parade or end up attending one. For example, Little Village holds a parade to mark this occasion. Commercial Ave., or better known as Slag Valley to some people, holds a parade to celebrate Mexican independence. In addition to these parades, people like to dress up in bright and colorful clothing. Women usually wear bright folkloric dresses or a colorful floral shirt. Men usually wear boots, traditional belts, and charro type shirts. There are some men that like to add a tejana to this mixture. But then, there are also those people who dress up in mariachi suits. These are just a few of the ways that people like to dress on these days.
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Now you know about some of the history behind Hispanic Heritage Month and some of our traditions. Now there are some people that go and make a carne asada, more known as grilling steak, but you don’t have to do this. There are definitely a lot of restaurants and parties that will be celebrating this special day, so go out and join one of them!
HAPPY HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH!
HAPPY HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH!
