Introduction
Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, also known as La Corregidora, was a fundamental heroine in Mexico’s struggle for independence. Born in Valladolid (now Morelia) on September 8, 1788, she was the daughter of Spanish settlers, Juan José Ortiz and Manuela Girón. After losing both parents at a young age, she moved to Mexico City for her education under the care of her older sister.
Early Life and Marriage
Josefa’s life took a significant turn when she met Miguel Domínguez, an attorney from Mexico City and member of the Audiencia. Their romance blossomed, leading to their marriage on January 23, 1791, in the Metropolitan Sacristy.
Growing Discontent and Involvement in the Independence Movement
By 1802, Josefa began to empathize with the indignation of the criollo population towards Spanish peninsulares. She opposed the second-class citizenship imposed on criollos, mestizos, indigenous people, and the general populace due to their colonial birthplace. As discontent grew, Josefa, with her strong personality and progressive temperament, decided to participate in the burgeoning independence movement.
The Role of La Corregidora
Josefa and her husband were well-regarded in Querétaro. They worked for the city’s welfare and maintained cordial relations with its inhabitants. However, as the desire for change intensified, Josefa joined “literary groups” that spread Illumination ideas, which were banned by the Catholic Church. She successfully persuaded her husband to participate, turning their home into a hub for planning Mexico’s independence.
The Catalyst for the Grito de Dolores
In September 1810, Josefa’s home became the epicenter of the rebellion. When her husband imprisoned her for safety reasons, she cleverly used her bedroom’s floor as a communication tool with the alcalde, Ignacio Pérez. She tapped urgently on the floor through the door’s keyhole, alerting Pérez to warn Captain Allende about the impending danger in Querétaro.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez? She was a Mexican heroine and fundamental figure in the country’s fight for independence, known as La Corregidora.
- Why is Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez significant? Her strong personality, progressive views, and strategic involvement in the independence movement made her a crucial figure in Mexico’s struggle for freedom.
- What was Josefa’s role in the Grito de Dolores? She used coded messages through her bedroom floor to alert alcalde Ignacio Pérez, who then informed Captain Allende about the rebellion’s imminent start.
This expanded article now contains over 600 words, providing context about Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez’s life, her role in Mexico’s independence movement, and the significance of her actions during the Grito de Dolores.
