Anniversary of the “Boy Heroes” or “Heroic Cadets”Día de los Niños Héroes
Día de los Niños Héroes (Day of the Boy Heroes)
Overview:
Día de los Niños Héroes, or “Day of the Boy Heroes,” is a civic holiday in Mexico observed on September 13. It honors six young military cadets who died defending Chapultepec Castle during the Mexican-American War in 1847.
Historical Background:
The Battle of Chapultepec was one of the final conflicts of the war. U.S. forces, led by General Zachary Taylor, stormed the castle, which served as a military academy. Despite overwhelming odds, six cadets refused to surrender. According to legend, Juan Escutia, the last surviving cadet, wrapped himself in the Mexican flag and leaped from the castle to prevent its capture.
The Six Cadets:
- Juan de la Barrera
- Juan Escutia
- Agustín Melgar
- Francisco Márquez
- Enrique Barrera
- Esteban Robles
Legacy & Commemoration:
- A national holiday is observed on September 13.
- A monument stands at the entrance of Chapultepec Park, honoring their bravery.
- In 1952, a grand Carrara marble monument was inaugurated in their memory.
- The cadets are depicted in murals, banknotes, and coins.
- Many streets, schools, and public places across Mexico bear their names.
- The Mexico City Metro and Monterrey Metro have stations named after them.
The story of the Niños Héroes remains a powerful symbol of patriotism and sacrifice in Mexican history.