Did you know that the famous “Viva México!” we shout every September 15th has a much deeper origin than a simple celebration?
What we hear today in plazas, homes, and even on television broadcasts was born from a historic act called by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810, which marked the beginning of Mexico’s Independence. Here we tell you why this phrase has remained the cry that unites millions of Mexicans.
How was the Cry of Independence born?
The story dates back to the early morning of September 16, 1810, when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, known as the “Father of the Nation,” called the people of Dolores, Guanajuato, to rise up in arms against Spanish rule. Although there are no exact records of the words he spoke, it is known that he summoned the people with phrases that exalted freedom, faith, and justice.
Over time, this call transformed into what we know today as the Cry of Independence, led by the President of the Republic from the National Palace and echoed in hundreds of municipalities across the country.
Declaration of Independence
According to some versions, the words spoken in the priest’s speech were:
Diego de Bringas (1810): “Long live America! Long live Ferdinand VII! Long live religion and death to the gachupines!”
According to Manuel Abad y Queipo (1810): “Long live our most holy mother of Guadalupe! Long live Ferdinand VII and death to bad government!”
Anonymous (1810) compiled by Ernesto Lemoine Villicaña: “Long live the Catholic religion! Long live Ferdinand VII! Long live the homeland and may our sacred patron saint, the Most Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, reign forever on this American continent! Death to bad government!”
Juan Aldama’s version (1811): “Long live America! Long live religion, and death to bad government!”
Why do we say “Long live Mexico!”?
The famous “Long live Mexico!” is a symbolic adaptation of that original cry. During the 19th century, authorities and presidents incorporated phrases such as “Long live Independence!”, “Long live the heroes who gave us our homeland!” and, finally, the iconic “Long live Mexico!”, which eventually became the centerpiece of the ceremony.
Shouting these words is not only a ritual, but a way to reaffirm national pride and remember that freedom was achieved thanks to the collective efforts of those who fought for an independent country.
What does shouting it represent today?
For many Mexicans, the “Grito” is not only a patriotic act, but also a moment of unity. Each voice that joins this cry reinforces the idea that, beyond differences, we all share a common identity.
“Long live Mexico!” It has become part of our collective memory, an echo that connects us with our history and that revives the spirit of struggle, freedom, and national pride every September 15th.
Source: abcnoticias
