MEXICO

By Stacy Gjovik

SYMBOL OF MEXICO – EAGLE WITH THE SNAKE – APPEARS ON THE FLAG

Location

Mexico is bordered by The United States to the north, on the south and the west by the Pacific Ocean, on the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea, and the east by the Gulf of Mexico.

Mexico está al sur de los Estados Unidos.

Geography

Mexico lies in the shadow of two active volcanoes and is crossed from North to South by two mountain ranges.

Population

• Mexico’s population is an estimated 111 million citizens.

Religion

The majority of the Mexican population is Roman Catholic.

Cathedral in Guadalajara, Mexico

Family

Family is the center of the social structure in Mexican Culture. Most families are generally large. Extended family is just as important as the nuclear family.

La familia es muy importante.

Indigenous CulturesThe Aztecs and the Mayans are two tribes of native people that inhabited Mexico for thousands of years before the first contact of Europeans.

Language

While Spanish is the official language of Mexico there are as many as 100 Native Languages also still spoken in Mexico. The most prevalent of these is Nahuatl.

Independence

Mexico declared its independence from Spain on September 16, 1810.

El día de independencia de México es el dieciseis de septiembre de mil ochocientos diez.

Capital

Mexico City is the capital of Mexico. The seat of government is known as el Zocalo. Mexico City is home to 86 million people.

ArchitectureMexico is known for its unique buildings and architecture. It is very common to see white adobe, iron works, clay tile roofs, and archways in the buildings. These features were brought from Spain.

Music

A very popular type of music in Mexico is the Mariachi. A mariachi band usually consists of violins, guitars and brass instruments.

CuisineMexico is known for its wonderful food. Tortillas made of corn or wheat are a staple in Mexican dishes. They can be used to make tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, etc.

ClimateSome of Mexico has a tropical climate and is known as a popular vacation spot for many Americans.

Traditional ArtsMexico is known for a rich history in arts and crafts. Many colorful handmade items are sold at open markets alongside fresh food items.

ClothingThe sombrero is an article of traditional Mexican clothing worn by many. It is also a popular souvenir. There are different types – depending on the region.

Celebrations

Piñatas are popular to Mexican celebrations. They are made from papier-mâché and look like people, animals, or fictional characters. They are stuffed with candy and small toys. Children are blindfolded and take turns hitting it until it breaks open.

BullfightingA popular yet controversial form of entertainment in Mexico is bullfighting. Some people protest against them because they say they are cruel to animals. The Plaza de Toros is the largest venue for bullfighting. It is located in Mexico City and seats 48,000 people.

Sports

Popular sports include soccer and boxing. Mexico was the first country to host the FIFA World Cup twice.

LiteratureNotable classic Mexican writers and poets include:Juan Ruiz de Alarcón and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz.