José Matías Delgado, a prominent Salvadoran priest, played a pivotal role in the push for independence from Spanish colonial rule. On this significant date, he rang the bells of La Merced church in San Salvador, sending a powerful message to the people of El Salvador. The striking of the bells served not only as a call to worship but transformed into an urgent plea for rebellion against the oppressive Spanish authorities. Delgado’s actions were fueled by growing discontent among the population regarding colonial injustices and economic hardships, especially as similar movements were emerging across Latin America. The community responded to his call, mobilizing to advocate for their rights and autonomy.

Delgado’s initiative to ring the bells was more than an act of defiance; it was a strategic move that inspired locals to join the 1811 Independence Movement. This movement was deeply influenced by Enlightenment ideals and was part of a wider Latin American effort towards independence, following notable revolutions in places like North America and France. The event signified the unity of church and state against colonialism, utilizing religious institutions as centers for mobilization and inciting patriotic fervor among the populace. Delgado's charisma and leadership positioned him as a key figure in the struggle for independence, establishing a legacy that resonated beyond the immediate events, influencing future generations in their quest for freedom.