Declaration to the world facts for kids

The Declaration to the world, or notes for history (also known as Manifiesto al mundo o sean apuntes para la historia in Spanish, or Manifiesto desde Liorna) is a very important document. It was written by Agustín de Iturbide (1793-1824). He wrote it after he was no longer the emperor of Mexico in March 1823. The document was made public on October 13, 1824, after he had passed away.

This writing showed how Iturbide saw himself and his role in Mexico's politics. It was found by chance after he was executed on July 19, 1824. The document was tucked between his shirt and belt. The stains you see on the document are Iturbide's blood.

In his declaration, Iturbide mentioned how people in other places, like Philadelphia and Havana, spoke about him. He felt they described him unfairly. He said they painted him as "cruel, ambitious, and a mercenary."

He also shared his thoughts on Mexico's future. Iturbide believed that creating a Mexican republic would face many challenges. He thought that those who supported a republic did not fully understand the situation. He felt they did not see how different Mexico was from the United States of America.

Iturbide's Return to Mexico

Just five days before he was put to death, the former emperor arrived in Mexico. He landed at the port of Soto la Marina, Tamaulipas. He had been living in Europe for over a year. Iturbide did not know that a law had been passed. This law said he would be immediately executed if he returned to Mexican soil.

He came back because he wanted to help Mexico. He thought Spain might try to invade Mexico again. King Fernando VII of Spain wanted to take Mexico back. He planned to use his forces for this.

Iturbide's Arrest and Imprisonment

Iturbide arrived on July 14, 1824. He was on an English ship called Spring. With him were his pregnant wife, Ana María Huarte, and their two youngest children. A nephew and a Polish lieutenant named Beneski were also with them.

Felipe de la Garza, a local commander, arrested Iturbide. He told Iturbide about the law from Congress. This law meant Iturbide would be immediately executed by a firing squad. Iturbide asked to be moved to Padilla. He hoped to talk with the lawmakers of the Tamaulipas Congress. However, they refused to listen to him and put him in prison.

Iturbide's Final Moments

While waiting for his execution, Iturbide wrote some letters. He wrote a goodbye letter to his wife and children. He also wrote to the lawmakers, asking what he was accused of.

On July 19, at 3:00 PM, the death sentence was read. Most of the lawmakers had approved it. Iturbide was taken to the main square of Padilla. Before he was executed, he spoke to the people gathered there. He asked them to stay united as Mexicans. He told them to love their country and follow Catholic teachings. He also urged them to obey the authorities. He strongly stated that he was not a traitor.

Iturbide's Burial and Legacy

The people of Padilla buried Iturbide in the local church. Later, in 1838, President Anastasio Bustamante gave an order. He wanted Iturbide's remains moved. They were taken to the altar of San Felipe de Jesús. This altar is in the Metropolitan Cathedral of the City of Mexico.

See also

In Spanish: Manifiesto al mundo para niños