Mariachis play on Mexican Independence Day, Sept. 16. Originally from Mexico, mariachi groups usually consist of at least two violins, two trumpets, one Spanish guitar, one vihuela (a high-pitched, five-string guitar) and one guitarrón (a small-scaled acoustic bass). They play in the style of musicians from Jalisco state and often are hired to serenade women.

The Mexican War of Independence started on Sept. 16, 1810. It was led by Mexican-born Spaniards, Afro-Mexicans and Mestizos who sought independence from Spain. On August 24, 1821, representatives of the Spanish crown and its military leader Agustín de Iturbide signed the Treaty of Córdoba, which recognized Mexican independence.

Sacramento, California.

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