The history of Mexican Independence is full of names like Miguel Hidalgo, José María Morelos and Vicente Guerrero, but there are other lesser-known figures who also played key roles in the struggle for freedom. While they don’t appear in textbooks as often, their actions were decisive for Mexico to achieve its independence. Here I tell you about some of them that you should definitely know.
Ignacio Allende: The strategist behind the priest Hidalgo
Although the priest Miguel Hidalgo is the most recognized face of the Grito de Dolores, Ignacio Allende was the one who initially planned the rebellion. Allende, a captain in the royalist army, joined the insurgents with the conviction that Mexico deserved to be free from Spain. He was a great military strategist, and although his tactics sometimes clashed with Hidalgo’s improvisation, Allende was instrumental in the early victories of the insurgent movement. Without his participation, it is likely that the rebellion would not have gone as far, nor would it have had the same strength.
Leona Vicario: The Woman Who Financed Independence
When we talk about women of independence, we often think of Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, but Leona Vicario was also a key figure. Vicario, a wealthy and educated woman, used her personal fortune to finance the insurgent cause. In addition to being one of the country’s first journalists, she worked as a spy and messenger for the insurgents. Her commitment to independence was such that when she was arrested and imprisoned, she managed to escape and continue supporting the cause.
Mariano Matamoros: The Warrior Priest
Like Hidalgo and Morelos, Mariano Matamoros was a priest committed to the freedom of his country. He joined the insurgent movement in 1811 and quickly became one of the most important generals under Morelos. Matamoros was a courageous strategist who led the insurgents to important military victories. His skill on the battlefield was so outstanding that even after he was captured and executed in 1814, his legacy continued to inspire the insurgents.
Hermenegildo Galeana: The Right Arm of Morelos
Hermenegildo Galeana was one of the men closest to José María Morelos. Although not as well known as his commander, Galeana was a military leader feared by his enemies and respected by his comrades. His loyalty and bravery on the battlefield earned him a special place in the insurgency, and he was instrumental in several of Morelos’ victories. Unfortunately, Galeana died in combat, but his name is still remembered as one of the great forgotten heroes of independence.
Guadalupe Victoria: The first president of independent Mexico
Although he is best known for being the first president of Mexico, few know that Guadalupe Victoria was also a prominent fighter in the war of independence. During the struggle, he changed his real name (José Miguel Ramón Adaucto Fernández y Félix) to “Guadalupe Victoria” as a symbol of his desire for freedom and victory for the nation. Victoria led numerous military campaigns in Veracruz and other regions, remaining steadfast until the consummation of independence in 1821.
Final Thoughts
Mexican independence was a collective effort in which people from different backgrounds and social classes participated. Although some figures, such as Hidalgo and Morelos, occupy the most prominent places in history, characters such as Allende, Vicario, Matamoros, Galeana and Victoria also played essential roles. Their stories deserve to be remembered and celebrated as much as those of the great names, because without them, Mexico would not be the free country it is today.
