A history of global Hispanic independence

After the Mexican War of Independence, Costa Rica gained freedom and two groups would emerge to determine the future of the nation. After the Battle of Ochomogo in 1823, San José would be established as the capital, and Costa Rica would go on to set up a Republic.

To mark the national holiday, the national flag is raised and parades featuring traditional costumes and dances take place. At 6 p.m. the night before, television and radio stations broadcast the national anthem.

A three-day celebration to commemorate its independence from Spain, and subsequently Mexico two years later, Honduras Independence Day celebrates the nation's attempts at unifying the Central American region.

Celebrations include parades featuring school children and parties at night clubs and bars.

Citizens of El Salvador celebrate the country's independence by participating in marches and parades, as well as singing folk songs that are popular in the country.

Nicaragua shares its independence day with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The country celebrates the day by indulging in parades and attending cockfights and bullfights. Public officials also give speeches acknowledging the day.

Guatemalans celebrate their independence day by decorating houses and buildings in blue and white, as well as dancing and eating plenty of food while enjoying the sounds of marimba music and firecrackers.

Priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave his "El Grito de Delores" speech on Sept. 16, 1810, inciting a rebellion lasting over ten years, before attaining freedom on Sept. 28, 1821. Mexico's Independence Day has since been recognized on the day Hidalgo delivered his address.

To honor the day, confetti and whistles are sold along with toys in the countries colors of green, white and red. Parades, rodeos, bullfights and dancing take place as well. At 11 p.m. on Sept. 15, the President of Mexico rings the bell Hidalgo y Costilla rang and recites the speech he gave.

Following the death of the governor, Luis Muñoz de Guzmán, the position had been filled by the Spanish crown with García Carrasco. Inspired by the May Revolution of Argentina, the local Criollo population would go on to force Carrasco's resignation, and fend off the Spanish crown until being finally recognized as independent in 1844.

Chileans celebrate independence day with carnivals, traditional food, dancing and games. Traditional games consist of sack racing and kite-flying.

Belizeans celebrate their independence day by participating in marches and parades, live musical concerts, children events and an expo that consists of singing, dances and delicious food. The celebration of the independence day starts two weeks before the actual day of independence and lasts until that day.