In September of 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week observed during the week that included Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. In 1989, it was expanded to a monthlong celebration (Sept. 15-Oct. 15). The start date is significant because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. 

Discover more about this observance by downloading our new Hispanic Heritage Month Fun Facts handout for students. Then, view the teaching guide filled with cool activity ideas for every grade level.