International News

Only In Print: How a Catholic Priest Helped Mexico Win Its Independence From Spain

Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla is known as the Father of Mexican Independence.

OZONE PARK — Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain began with the ringing of a church bell. Now, more than 200 years later, it is with the ringing of church bells that Mexican Independence Day is celebrated.

The Catholic Church has a strong connection to that historic day — Sept. 16 — because it was a priest, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, who helped launch the Mexican rebellion…


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