Heroic Defense of Veracruz – April 21
On April 21, Mexicans commemorate the Heroic Defense of Veracruz (Heroica Defensa de Veracruz) to honor the city’s resistance against the U.S. occupation in 1914. While it is observed across the country as a civic holiday, it is not a paid day off.
Historical Context
The events in Veracruz unfolded during the Mexican Revolution, a time of intense internal conflict and strained relations with the United States.
The immediate cause of the confrontation was the Tampico Affair on April 9, 1914, when Mexican forces mistakenly detained several American sailors. Although they were quickly released and Mexico offered an apology, the government refused to comply with a U.S. demand for a 21-gun salute. Viewing this as an act of defiance, President Woodrow Wilson ordered U.S. forces to seize the port of Veracruz.
The Battle for Veracruz
On April 21, 1914, U.S. Marines landed in Veracruz with the goal of taking control of the strategic port. General Gustavo Maass, the Mexican military commander, withdrew most of his troops, but about 50 soldiers, along with cadets, faculty, and staff from the Veracruz Naval Academy, chose to fight. Civilians also joined in, resisting the occupation with whatever weapons they could find.
Despite their determination, the outnumbered and outgunned defenders were unable to stop the U.S. forces, who fully secured the city by April 22. The occupation continued for six months, finally ending on November 23, 1914.
Impact on U.S.-Mexico Relations
The occupation of Veracruz further strained an already tense relationship between Mexico and the United States. It fueled anti-American sentiment, reinforcing historical grievances from earlier conflicts, such as the Mexican-American War (1846–1848), in which Mexico lost a large portion of its territory.
Today, the Heroic Defense of Veracruz is remembered as a symbol of Mexican resistance and national pride, honoring those who stood against foreign intervention despite overwhelming odds.