Hidalgo was born to a noble family in the town of Dolores in the intendency of Guanajuato (present-day Guanajuato). He was ordained a priest in 1778, and later became the parish priest of Dolores.
Hidalgo was a strong supporter of the ideals of the French Revolution, and was inspired by the ideas of freedom and equality to begin a revolt against Spanish rule in Mexico.
On 16th September 1810, Hidalgo gave a speech known as the Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores), which called for the end of Spanish rule in Mexico. This event marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence.
Hidalgo led a rebel army against the Spanish, and achieved a number of victories, but was ultimately defeated and executed by the Spanish in 1811.
Despite his death, Hidalgo's legacy lived on, and his ideas inspired other leaders to continue the fight for Mexican independence. Mexico finally achieved independence from Spain in 1821.
Hidalgo is considered a national hero in Mexico, and is remembered for his bravery and his dedication to the cause of Mexican independence.