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Revolutionary Figures
This momentous event is reenacted by the president of Mexico each year in the early morning hours before Mexican Independence Day on September 16.
Simon Bolivar brought revolution to much of South America, and his leadership in a war against Spain helped gain independence for Gran Colombia, which later became Bolivia (Celebrated August 6), Colombia (July 20), Ecuador (August 10), Panama (November 3), Peru (July 28) and Venezuela (July 5). Bolivar maintained a leadership role in many of the newly created countries and is still celebrated as a great hero today.
What Bolivar did for the north of the continent, José de San Martín did for the south. He gathered and led armies to defeat the Spanish to gain independence for Chile (September 18) and Argentina (July 9) and joined Bolivar to liberate Peru. Unlike his counterpart, San Martín left the spotlight when he accomplished his goal. He become a simple farmer and later retired to Europe.
Other Stories of Independence
With revolution happening all over the continent, Paraguay took advantage of the difficulties Spain was having and fought for its own independence, which it gained on May 14, 1811.
While most of South America gained independence from Spain, the Spanish have their own Independence Day. After Napoleon conquered much of the Iberian Peninsula, Spain had to win back its independence. While the war isn't remembered in a specific Independence Day celebration, its effects lives on as this war weakened Spain and set the stage for victories by South American revolutionary forces.
Brazil's independence from Portugal wasn't as violent as its South American neighbors. After a fairly complex series of disputes and stand-offs, Brazil declared its independence on September 7, 1822.
The Taste of Independence
No matter the date, Independence Day is marked by great celebrations of food! Some great recipes to make while you celebrate include...