Mexico

• By: Becky M. • Grade 6 Bell

Avon

History The first inhabitants were

the Olmecs. In 2000 BC, the Mayan empire started to build cities throughout North and Central America, but the empire fell in the 12 century. The Aztecs had the last empire, but fell to the Spanish in 1521. The Spanish ruled until the 19 century. Miguel Hidalgo led Mexico in a drive for independence that started in 1810, and ended in 1821. A constitution was made in 1824, and a republic was formed.

History (cont.)In 1833, Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana ruled as dictator, and Mexico lost much of its territory. Benito Juarez took power in 1855 after Santa Ana resigned. French troops invaded Mexico City in 1861, and Maximilian became the emperor of Mexico. In 1867, he was overthrown. Mexico then went through many years of political unrest. The PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party) and the PAN ( National Action Party) became their two main parties.

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The PeopleMexico’s population is about 107.5 million people. It is growing about 1.2 percent yearly. Around 60 percent of the population is mixed Spanish and indigenous heritage. Another thirty percent is of various indigenous groups. The last 9 percent is of European ancestry. Mexico is the official language that most speak. Other languages include Tzotzil, Tzeltal, Nahuatl, Otomi, Zapotec, and Mixtec.

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The People (cont.)Most Mexicans are Roman Catholic. The Virgin of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico and a national symbol. Mexicans also value friendship, humor, honesty, hard work, and personal honor. Mexicans are patriotic and very proud of their nation. Mexicans in urban areas wear clothes similar to the U.S., but some wear traditional clothing.

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Customs and Courtesies

Mexicans generally greet people with a handshake or nod of the head. Friends commonly embrace. Women greet with a kiss on the cheek, and so do men with close women. Verbal greetings include Buenos dias (Good morning), Buenas tardes (Good afternoon), and Buenas Noches (Good evening/night).

Customs and Courtesies (cont.) Mexicans are very

hospitable. Even if a visitor is unexpected, they are treated as if they were expected. Mexicans also enjoy conversing a being with relatives. Sometimes meals are not served until late because of conversation a socializing. Guests don’t offer the host help, unless it is shown needed. Gifts are very important on special occasions.

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Lifestyle Most Mexican families

have more than 3 children. Family unity is very important. The divorce rate is relatively low, because the Catholic Church does not approve of it. The father of the family usually provides economic support. The mother is responsible for most domestic duties. Children generally live with their parents until they marry. 8

Lifestyle (cont.) When dating, a man

and women meet in a prearranged place. Parental approval of the activity and the boyfriend is important. A women does not technically become of age until she is 18, but a quinceanos is held for her 15 birthday. A quinceanos is partly religious. Family and friends attend and socialize. 9