Chapter 10, Student Web Activities, The American Journey, Glencoe, 2005

Chapter 10: Growth and Expansion
"Democratic Movements in the Americas"

Introduction
In this chapter you have read about the growth and changes taking place in early America. Change was also coming to other countries of the Western Hemisphere. Simón Bolívar, José de San Martín, and Miguel Hidalgo are only a few of the people who fought for the independence of their countries. Each year on September 16, Mexicans still shout the Grito de Dolores and remember one of their leaders, Miguel Hidalgo, and his courageous actions in their fight for freedom.

Destination Title: Mexico Online

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Directions
Start at the Mexico Online Web site.

Click on History in the menu on the left of the screen.
Scroll down to "Historical Figures."
Click on and read about Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.

After you have read the article answer the following questions.

1. Who was Miguel Hidalgo? Who were gachopines and criollos?

2. What event in Europe provided a good opportunity for Mexicans to assert their independence?

3. What group did Hidalgo call on to help in the fight for Mexican independence?

4. What did Hidalgo later regret?

5. Imagine that you are Miguel Hidalgo on the night before he was to be executed for his part in the revolution. Write a letter to a friend describing how you feel about your actions and their consequences.