Hidalgo was born in 1753, a criollo (Creole, or person of Spanish descent born in Mexico). According to history, he apparently did not take the priesthood seriously as a theological lifestyle, but seemed to use it to further his vision of a free Mexico. He is known to have had a mistress, to have literally fathered children, and to have raised doubts about Church doctrines (including the virgin birth of Mary), as well as celibacy of the priesthood, and was under scrutiny by the Inquisition. His views were liberal, particularly at that time, and questioning of Church authority. He belonged to secret societies that were plotting to overthrow Spain.
Hidalgo was very interested in the plight of his countrymen, and wanted to improve their lot in life. He learned the language of the Indians and taught them different skills and trades to improve their economic status. These included pottery, weaving, silk, carpentry, blacksmithing and other trades.
Hidalgo’s movement to free Mexico made him more of a military leader than spiritual leader; however, his military tactics failed. Excommunicated and defrocked, he was captured and executed on July 11, 1811 by a firing squad.
Hidalgo did not live up to the Church standards for priests at that time, as a Father in the Church - he was a biological father, and was considered a heretic. Now he is also considered the Father of Mexico because of his role in the Mexican Revolution.
Mexican History http://www.mexconnect.com/mex_/history/jtuck/jthidalgo.html
The Mexican Revolution http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/mexicanrev.htm#hidalgo
A Biography of Father Hidalgo http://www.calnative.com/stories/n_hidalg.htm