After nearly 300 years of Spanish rule, Quito still remained small with a population of 10,000 people. On 10 August 1809, the city's criollos called for independence from Spain (first among the peoples of Latin America). They were led by Juan Pío Montúfar, Quiroga, Salinas, and Bishop Cuero y Caicedo. Quito's nickname, "Luz de América" ("Light of America"), is based on its leading role in trying to secure an independent, local government. Although the new government lasted no more than two months, it had important repercussions and was an inspiration for the independence movement of the rest of Spanish America. Today, 10 August is celebrated as Independence Day, a national holiday.
after nearly 300 years of spanish rule quito still remained small with a population of 10000 people on 10 august 1809 the city's criollos called for independence from spain (first among the peoples of latin america) they were led by juan pío montúfar quiroga salinas and bishop cuero y caicedo quito's nickname "luz de américa" ("light of america") is based on its leading role in trying to secure an independent local government although the new government lasted no more than two months it had important repercussions and was an inspiration for the independence movement of the rest of spanish america today 10 august is celebrated as independence day a national holiday