The Plan of Iguala - History of the Mexican Independence Day

T he Plan of Iguala, also known as the Plan of the Three Guarantees, was a pivotal document in Mexico's struggle for independence from S...

The Plan of Iguala, also known as the Plan of the Three Guarantees, was a pivotal document in Mexico's struggle for independence from Spain. It was issued on February 24, 1821, by royalist officer Agustín de Iturbide and rebel leader Vicente Guerrero, who united their forces to bring an end to the Mexican War of Independence. This agreement outlined the framework for Mexico's independence and sought to unify disparate factions within the movement.

Key Elements of the Plan of Iguala

The Plan of Iguala was based on three core principles, often referred to as the Three Guarantees:

1. Religion

   • Roman Catholicism would remain the sole religion of the state.
   • This was designed to appeal to conservative elites and ensure the support of the Church, a powerful institution in colonial Mexico.

2. Independence

   • Mexico would gain full independence from Spain and become a constitutional monarchy.
   • A European prince or a member of the Spanish royal family would be invited to rule, symbolizing continuity and stability.

3. Unity

• All Mexicans, regardless of race or social class, would be treated as equals.
• This aimed to end the long-standing discrimination against indigenous people, mestizos, and Creoles, uniting them under the new national identity.

Political and Social Impact

The Plan of Iguala appealed to various groups:

• Revolutionaries: It fulfilled the long-standing demand for independence.
• Royalists: It preserved elements of the existing social and political structure.
• Church and Elites: It protected Catholicism and guaranteed their privileges.

The plan provided a pragmatic solution to the prolonged conflict by reconciling the goals of different factions.

The Military Context

The Plan of Iguala also led to the creation of the Army of the Three Guarantees, which symbolized the three principles of the plan. This army, led by Iturbide and Guerrero, became a powerful force that pressured Spanish loyalists and eventually achieved victory.

Outcome and Legacy

The Plan of Iguala directly led to the signing of the Treaty of Córdoba on August 24, 1821, in which Spain formally recognized Mexico's independence. However, its vision of a constitutional monarchy was short-lived. When no European monarch accepted the throne, Iturbide declared himself Emperor of Mexico in 1822, a move that caused political instability and ultimately led to his overthrow.

The Plan of Iguala remains a significant milestone in Mexican history, symbolizing the unity and determination that secured the nation's independence.