Chile Independence Day – September 18, 2024

History of Chile Independence Day

A small country, Chile was under the rule of the Spanish Empire for 300 long years. By the 18th century, an atmosphere of independence was gaining ground — the U.S. threw off British rule and Northern South America was fighting for freedom for New Granada. These examples lit a desire for independence in the Chilean people, too, a desire which was further compounded by their mismanagement under a corrupt Spanish-appointed governor, Francisco Antonio García Carrasco. In October 1808, he was caught stealing smuggled clothes from a British whaling warship and he caused the deaths of its captain and some crew members, fanning the flames of revolutionary thought among the Chileans.

Further spurring on the independence movement was France’s invasion of Spain and Portugal in 1808. French military leader Napoleon Bonaparte then installed his brother on the Spanish throne, imprisoning King Charles IV and his heir, Ferdinand VII. The colonies rebelled, in part because they did not want to pay taxes to the French government. Some countries like Argentina and Ecuador chose a middle ground, declaring themselves independent until Ferdinand VII could take back the Spanish throne. Chile took the same route, and declared conditional independence from Spain on September 18, 1810, although only gaining total independence a decade later, after a drawn-out war. Nevertheless, because an important first step was taken on this day, Chileans have designated September 18 as their official Independence Day.

Independence Day is immediately followed by another public holiday, the Day of the Glories of the Army, honoring the members of the military who fought for their country. Many businesses and schools will announce a week-long holiday for the ‘Fiestas Patrias’ or ‘Homeland Holidays,’ which commemorate the events surrounding the country’s fight for autonomy. These fiestas feature parades, dancing, partying, traditional Chilean food, and displays of patriotism. ‘Huasos,’ the country’s iconic cowboys, are frequently featured in these parades.

Even as Chileans celebrate their liberation, they continue to face many financial obstacles — such as affording a quality college education. Luckily, there are many organizations and associations that offer funding to help. Scholaroo has numerous scholarships for Hispanic students, so check them out.