What was the birth of Mexico?

- Miguel Hidalgo - parish priest who called the people to battle

Mexican independence proclaimed September 16, 1810, the Cry of Dolores

- Jose Maria Morelos y Pavon, another priest led guerrilla campaigns against Spanish troops until 1815 when defeated - captured and executed - but Mexican forces continued battle to gain independence

- Agustín de Iturbide led successful 3 war effort, won in 1821 Iturbide declared emperor

- 1824 Mexico became republic Guadalupe Victoria first president

- Mexican American War 1846 -1848

- US won; gained over half of prewar Mexican territory including the present California, Nevada, Utah, most of Arizona and New Mexico, and parts of Wyoming and Colorado