why is hispanic heritage month on the 15th

Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15 in the United States because September 15 marks the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16, and Chile on September 18. The month-long period was established to include these significant dates and also encompasses Columbus Day (Día de la Raza) on October 12. Originally, Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week, created in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson to recognize the contributions of Hispanic Americans. In 1988, it was expanded to a month-long celebration by President Ronald Reagan to allow for broader recognition of the culture, history, and achievements of Hispanic communities in the U.S. The starting date of September 15 was chosen specifically because of the important independence anniversaries in multiple Latin American countries, making it a meaningful time for the celebration.