José María Morelos

José María Morelos y Pavón (1765–1815) was a priest who became the leading insurgent commander after Miguel Hidalgo’s execution. He organized the Congress of Chilpancingo and wrote Sentimientos de la Nación, an early charter for an independent Mexico, before being captured and executed in 1815.

The phrase reflects his willingness to give his life for independence. Don’t confuse him with Hidalgo, who launched the movement in 1810 with the Grito de Dolores.