Glencoe World History © 2010

Chapter 21: The Height of Imperialism

Student Web Activity Lesson Plans

Mexican Independence

Introduction

Successful revolutions in the United States (1776), France (1789), and Haiti (1804), gave rise to Mexico's aspirations for independence from colonial rule. After Mexico declared its independence in 1810, Mexico's wars of independence commenced and lasted for over a decade ending in 1821. In this activity students will learn about Mexico's wars of independence and two major figures in the Mexican independence movement, Miguel Hidalgo and José Morales.

Lesson Description
Students will go to a Web site about the history of Mexican Independence. The site contains information about Merico's wars of independence and about Miguel Hidalgo and José Morelos, two of the major figures in the Mexican independence movement. Students will read the information and answer four questions about what they have read. They will then write a short biography for one of the men.

Instructional Objectives

1. The learner will be able to identify major people and events during the Mexican independence movement.


2. The learners will be able to apply what they have learned by writing a short biography about one of the major figures of the Mexican independence movement.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. The French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars diverted Spain’s attention from its colonies, increasing dissatisfaction and desire for local government. The forced removal of Ferdinand VII from the Spanish throne and his replacement by Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's brother, causing confusion and an opportunity for the Mexican intelligentsia to rebel.



2. The "Cry of Dolores" was a short speech given by Miguel Hidalgo to inspire the people to fight for their independence from Spain. For this reason, it has also been called "a cry for independence."



3. José Morelos assumed leadership of the movement after Hidalgo's death. He established a Congress, which created a declaration of independence and a constitution.



4. Mexico became independent in 1821, ten years after the death of Hidalgo and six years after the death of Morelos.



5. Students' biographies will vary but should include detailed information of the person being described.