Mexico: From colonisation to independence

The history of Mexico, from its colonisation by the Spanish to its hard-won independence, is a rich tapestry woven with the threads of conquest, resistance, and cultural fusion. The period spanned over three centuries and witnessed the transformation of a land and its people, setting the stage for the birth of a nation.

The arrival of the Spanish and the fall of the Aztec Empire

Mexico’s colonial story began with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century. The most notable of these was Hernán Cortés, who landed on the Gulf Coast in 1519. Cortés, driven by tales of a wealthy empire, made his way inland toward Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec Empire.

The Aztec Empire, under the rule of Montezuma II, was a powerful and sophisticated civilisation known for its majestic cities, complex social structures, and advanced agricultural practices. However, the arrival of the Spaniards marked the beginning of the end for this great empire. Cortés, aided by alliances with other indigenous tribes resentful of Aztec dominance, succeeded in capturing Tenochtitlán in 1521 after a brutal siege.

Colonial rule: The Viceroyalty of New Spain

Following the conquest, the Spanish established the Viceroyalty of New Spain in 1535, encompassing modern-day Mexico and other regions in North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean. This period was characterised by the imposition of Spanish culture, language, and religion. The Spanish crown instituted systems like the encomienda and hacienda, which effectively enslaved the indigenous population and exploited their labour for agricultural and mining endeavours.

The Catholic Church played a pivotal role in this era, not only in converting the indigenous population to Christianity but also in establishing educational institutions and hospitals. However, the missionary zeal was often accompanied by the suppression of native customs and beliefs.

Slavery in Mexico

During the colonial period under Spanish rule, slavery in Mexico had a different history and character compared to what transpired in the United States.

1. Indigenous slavery: Initially, the Spanish colonisers enslaved many of the indigenous peoples. This was part of the encomienda system, where Spanish encomenderos (landowners) were granted the labour of a group of indigenous people. However, this system faced opposition from various quarters, including the Catholic Church. It gradually transitioned into more of a feudal-like system than outright slavery.
2. African slavery: With the decline in the indigenous population due to diseases and harsh working conditions, the Spanish began importing African slaves to meet labour demands, particularly in mining and plantation areas. The first African slaves were brought to Mexico in the early 16th century.
3. Black slavery’s scale and decline: While the scale of African slavery in Mexico was significant, it was not as extensive as in other parts of the Americas, such as the Caribbean or Brazil. Over time, a considerable population of free Blacks and mixed-race individuals (mulattoes) emerged in Mexico. The institution of African slavery began to wane in the late 18th century. It was officially abolished in 1829 following Mexico’s independence from Spain.
4. Cultural impact: African slaves in Mexico contributed to the country’s cultural and racial diversity. Many of the descendants of these slaves and free Blacks have contributed significantly to Mexican culture in various ways. However, their history and influence have often been overlooked in mainstream narratives about Mexico’s past.

Society and economy under Spanish rule

Colonial society was stratified, with Spaniards (Peninsulares) at the top, followed by Creoles (Mexicans of Spanish descent), Mestizos (mixed indigenous and Spanish descent), and at the bottom, the indigenous and African slaves. This social hierarchy influenced every aspect of life in New Spain.

The colony’s economy was primarily based on mining – particularly silver – and agriculture. The wealth generated significantly contributed to the Spanish Empire’s economy, although it benefited only the upper echelons of colonial society.

Path to independence: The seeds of discontent

The desire for independence in Mexico was fueled by various factors: the social inequalities prevalent under Spanish rule, the influence of Enlightenment ideas, and the examples of the American and French Revolutions.

The initial spark for the Mexican War of Independence was ignited by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a parish priest. On 16 September 1810, Hidalgo, in the small town of Dolores, made a passionate call to arms against Spanish rule, known as the Grito de Dolores. This event marked the beginning of a rebellion that would engulf the colony for over a decade.

The struggle for independence

Hidalgo’s army, comprised mainly of indigenous and mestizo Mexicans, captured several key cities. However, the rebellion faced setbacks, including Hidalgo’s capture and execution in 1811. The struggle continued under other leaders, such as José María Morelos y Pavón, who convened the Congress of Chilpancingo in 1813 to declare independence formally.

Morelos was also captured and executed in 1815, but the insurgency persisted. In a remarkable turn of events, Agustín de Iturbide, a royalist officer, switched sides and joined forces with Vicente Guerrero, a leader of the insurgency. In 1821, they formulated the Plan of Iguala, a three-point plan that called for Mexican independence, equality among racial groups, and the protection of Catholicism.

The birth of a nation: The achievement of independence

On 27 September 1821, after a decade of war, Mexico officially declared independence from Spain. Iturbide was proclaimed emperor of the newly independent nation, but his reign was short-lived. The political landscape in post-independence Mexico was tumultuous, marked by power struggles and shifting governments.

Legacy of the colonial era and independence

The colonial era and the subsequent fight for independence profoundly shaped Mexico’s identity. The fusion of indigenous, African and Spanish cultures created a unique Mexican culture. The struggle for independence instilled a sense of national pride and sovereignty that continues to resonate in modern Mexico.

Mexico Independence Day

Mexico has an Independence Day, which is celebrated on 16 September. It is one of Mexico’s most important national holidays, marked with various festivities, including parades, concerts, fireworks, and the reenactment of the Grito de Dolores by public officials.

Reflecting on Mexico’s colonial past

The history of Mexico from colonisation to independence tells a story of resilience, resistance, and transformation. It highlights the complexities of colonial rule, the struggle for self-determination, and the birth of a nation with a distinct identity. As we look back on this pivotal period in Mexican history, it offers valuable insights into the enduring impacts of colonialism and the universal quest for freedom and equality.