Happy Mexican Independence Day: What to know about the holiday's history

Sept. 16 is Mexican Independence Day, a day commemorating the moment when Father Hidalgo, a priest and leader, called for Mexico's liberation from Spain in September of 1810.

Mexican Independence Day coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month as many in the community celebrate a historical and political milemarker in Mexico's history. 

The call to rise up against Spanish rule, known as El Grito de Dolores, or the Cry of Dolores, is named after the town of Dolores, Mexico, where it was originally made, according to History.com.

Go deeper:Mexican Independence Day: How September 16 signifies a 'moment of hope' for Mexico

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The 11-year battle that resulted in Mexico's independence culminated on Aug. 24, 1821, when Spain signed the Treaty of Córdoba, which formally recognized Mexican independence. Finally, nearly three centuries of Spanish colonial rule came to an end.

But it was a costly fight; throughout the course of the war, Mexico lost one-tenth of its citizens, according to the New World Encyclopedia. 

Nowadays, every year on the night of Sept. 15, the president of Mexico stands on the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City and delivers a speech similar to Hidalgo's and honors those who fought for the country’s independence.

Celebrating heritage:Mexico honors Nashville fashion designer, Manuel Cuevas, to mark Hispanic Heritage Month | Plazas

The president also waves a Mexican flag and rings the same bell Hidalgo rang over 300 years ago.

It's also important to note that Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo are two distinct holidays, though both mark important moments in Mexico's history.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the day the Mexican Army successfully defended the city of Puebla against invading French forces in 1862. Mexican Independence Day was established nearly 50 years before the Battle of Puebla occurred.

Photos:Manuel Cuevas receives Distinguished Mexican Award

Molly Weisner is a digital producer for the USA Today network. Find her on Twitter @molly_weisner.