Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States annually from September 15 to October 15. This month-long observance recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic culture on the nation's history and achievements. The choice of these dates is significant because September 15 marks the independence anniversary of several Latin American countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16, and Chile on September 18. Hispanic Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded to a full month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.
