What is the Mexican bicentennial?

Mexico's bicentennial commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Mexican War of Independence, which began on September 16, 1810, and ended on September 27, 1821, when Mexico gained its independence from Spain.

The bicentennial was celebrated throughout Mexico in 2010, with various events and activities held to mark the occasion. The main event took place in Mexico City on September 15, 2010, when a military parade was held along the Paseo de la Reforma, featuring contingents from the Mexican armed forces and from foreign military delegations.

The parade was followed by a ceremony at the Zócalo, where President Felipe Calderón delivered a speech and the Mexican flag was raised. The bicentennial was also marked with the issuance of commemorative coins and stamps, as well as the publication of historical books and articles.