The history of Mexico,
a country located in the southern portion of North America, covers a period of more than two millennia. First populated more than 13,000 years ago,[1] the country produced complex indigenous civilizations before being conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century. Since the Spanish conquest, Mexico has fused its long-established native civilizations with European culture. Perhaps nothing better represents this hybrid background than Mexico's languages: the country is both the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world and home to the largest number of Native American language speakers in North America. From 1519, the Spaniards absorbed the native peoples into Spain's vast colonial empire. For three centuries Mexico was part of the Spanish Empire, and during this period the current Spanish-speaking, Catholic and Westernized Mexican culture was born. After a protracted struggle Mexico declared its independence from Spain in 1810. In 1846, the Mexican American War broke out, ending two years later with Mexico ceding almost half of its territory to the United States. Later in the 19th century, France invaded Mexico (1861) and set Maximilian I on the Mexican throne, which lasted until 1867. A half-century of economic stagnation and political chaos ended as Porfirio Díaz held power and promoted order and the modernization of the society and economy. Mexico's infrastructure was modernized by a strong, stable central government. Increased tax revenues and better administration brought dramatic improvements in public safety, public health, railways, mining, industry, foreign trade, and national finances. Little had been done for the nation's poor, and they revolted in the Mexican Revolution (1910–1929). Roaming armies killed a tenth of the nation's population, but the Revolution freed the peons from the system of large haciendas that had originated with the Spanish Conquest. The center-left Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI) controlled national and state politics after 1929, and nationalized the oil industry in the 1930s. The population grew rapidly even as millions moved to the United States. Mexico's economy was further integrated with the U.S. after the NAFTA agreement began lowering trade barriers in 1994. Seven decades of PRI rule ended in the year 2000 with the election of Vicente Fox of the Partido Acción Nacional (PAN). In the face of extremely violent drug wars, the PRI returned to power in 2012, promising that it had reformed itself.
Flag of Mexico
The flag is being used on several occasions. In times of war when a flag was raised in a particular place, it means that the area is already occupied by the soldiers of the country who owns the flag. It is also placed on top of a coffin whenever a person who has either served the government as an elected leader or who had served the military or police force died. The flag of Mexico is divided vertically into three equal stripes. The first stripe is colored green, the middle stripe which contains the emblem is colored white and the third stripe is colored red. Historians were able to trace back the history of the Mexican flag to the time of the Aztec culture. The Aztecs is one of the oldest cultures that ever existed.
Aztecs believed in many gods and they had this vision of an eagle clutching a snake in its claws. They interpreted this as a sign from the gods for the Aztecs to find the eagle and to build their own colony on the exact place where they will find the eagle. The Aztecs made the long journey until they were able to have a glimpse of the Mexican eagle so there they built their homes and migrated. It is a place which is near a lake so they had access to water. Thus, this is where the idea of an eagle which served as an emblem on the Mexican flag. Mexico is actually a country which is very rich in terms of cultural heritage. The old civilization of Aztecs grew and the people today are called Mexicans. For the Mexicans, the color green on their flag means hope; white means being pure and honest, and red is for the bravery of the people of Mexico who continued to fight for freedom even to the extent of losing their lives.
Mexican Peso
The national currency of Mexico today is called the Mexican peso. Mexican money originates from the Spanish dollar system of currency prevalent in North America during the era of Spanish Imperialism. In fact, the Spanish dollar was widely used in colonial USA and Canada until the first half of the 19th century. Mexican peso is denoted by the dollar sign ($) and is listed in the international exchange index using the acronym MXN.
The silver Spanish dollar was the original basis of Mexican money and was a pioneer in thwarting money counterfeits by issuing specifications like exact weight and definitive borders on old Spanish coins. This made the Spanish dollar very popular and in 1785 it became the official system of currency in all of North America. When the US dollar was first introduced in 1792 its value was pegged to the Spanish dollar at the equivalent exchange rate of 1 peso to 1 dollar. Only when Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821 did the country start minting and printing an exclusive currency.
The Mexican peso has been a highly stable currency overcoming inflation until the nation was hit by an oil crisis in 1970. Mexico is an export-driven economy and the oil industry accounts for a huge percentage in government revenue. The Mexican peso has undergone waves of devaluation that in 1993 the currency underwent a revamp and was renamed ‘Nuevo peso.’ In 1996 new banknotes and coins were issued and released in circulation—however, the reference ‘Nuevo’ was dropped and Mexican money is simply known today as ‘peso.’
The Bank of Mexico—the nation’s central bank—is in charge of administering monetary policy and issuing banknotes such as $20, $50, $100, $200, $500 and $1000 MXN and 50¢, 1$, 2$, 5$, and 10$ Mexican peso coins. In Mexican currency, one peso is equivalent to a hundred centavos. Unlike many of its regional neighbors in Latin America, Mexico has enjoyed a relatively more stable economy for the majority of the 20th century. In recent years is has become one of the fifteen more widely traded world currencies as a result of a stable economy and rise in foreign direct investments. The exchange rate of the Mexican peso was about $12.39 to $1 US dollar in 2010.
Mexico Top Cities
Acapulco
Acapulco city is located at Acapulco Bay, where the locals and tourists can enjoy luscious and elegant scenery of the coastal area. Tourists are attracted by the seemingly postcard-perfect beaches. Since the 1950’s, Acapulco has been a world renowned famous vacation destination offering many good times.
The tourist spots offer a variety of different attractions for the many tourists that live there. This is a coastal city, and the main attractions are water sports activities. Quebrada Cliff Divers’ Shows are popular, Taxco Main Drag, Mayan Palace, Isla La Roqueta, Playa Pie de la Cuesta, Fuerte de San Diego, are some of the other popular attractions you can explore and discover. The beautiful scenery will give you the best possible vacation to this coastal city. The many activities you can enjoy include deep sea fishing, snorkeling, a cruise along the Coyuca Lagoon, scuba diving on blue waters, or other highly recommended activities by the locals.
Apart from the activities you can do in this city, exploring the great cuisine of Acapulco can be a very positive experience. Start with one of the most popular and highest rating restaurant called Su Casa. They offer Mexican style seafood within a very romantic ambiance for only $25 to $100. Jovitos, on the other hand, also offers Mexican seafood in addition to some great pasta dishes. Since Acapulco is a coastal city, seafood here is caught fresh daily and tastes good. Another restaurant that is a must-try is Conuco, an Italian restaurant that offers outdoor dining, price range is $15 to $25. Finally, there’s O’Jardim, a Brazilian restaurant that offers a different twist to your dining experience. Make sure you make a reservation ahead of time; the price range is $20 to $25 for dinner.
Mexico City
One of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City is the capital of Mexico on the North America continent. It is also one of the most populous cities of the world. It also has the distinction of having the maximum number of museums in the world. Tourists often refer to the Mexico City as the ‘city of palaces.’ This is because of the numerous State buildings that can be found in this capital city.
Mexico City has a rich historical past, and these signs of its great past are almost everywhere to see. One of the most important areas of the Mexico City is Plaza de la Constitucion. Counted among one of the largest squares in the world, this city landmark is surrounded by several historic buildings. One can also find the Mexico Cathedral in its vicinity. The Mexico Cathedral is the biggest one of its kind in South America. But what really attracts the tourists to this spot is the fact that it is its magnificent architecture. The oldest cathedral in all of South America, one can see a combination of architectural styles in this building.
Tourists in Mexico City also flock to Basilica de Guadalupe. This place is considered to be one of the holiest places by the Catholics all around the world. The Basilica de Guadalupe sees pilgrims in large numbers around December 12 every year. This shrine is also said to guard the shroud of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
After touring all the major places of interest in Mexico City, you can sit down and enjoy a panoramic view of the capital city by going to the top of Latino Americana Tower. This is also a very important landmark in Mexico City.
Away from the cultural sights of Mexico City, if you want to see its historical sights, then you can visit the Xochimilco. The Xochimilco is a huge network of waterways and flower gardens built by the Aztecs. Here, you can have a closer look of the waterways by riding on the trajineras or ‘vividly-colored boats.’ The Xochimilco was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987. For some more insights into the Aztec civilization, you can visit the Temple Mayor Museum, which houses some of the last remnants of this great civilization.
Connoisseurs of Latin Art can visit the Museum of Modern Art, where they can enjoy works of the famous Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, apart from other known painters such as Leonora Carrington, and Remedios Varo.
You can round off your visit to Mexico City by enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine including Tacos al pastor, Enchiladas Suizas, and Quesadillas, while the famous Mariachi Band plays for you alongside.
Guadalajara
If you are currently looking for an exotic destination to visit and you want to try something fun and exciting, then book now to Guadalajara, Mexico. It is an exciting city that attracts tourists from all over the world. The best possible description of Guadalajara is a mixture of traditional Mexico with a modern feel to it.
One destination you may want to discover is the Plaza Tapatia, from the old structures, it will definitely take you back in time. Other possible attractions to experience could be the street performers like the mariachi bands performing for passer bys or enjoy free concerts in an open park by the State Band of Jalisco.
Something to do while in Guadalajara are visiting the zoo, where the children will be entertained. Besides the zoo, your children may want to experience the theme park with mid-sized roller coasters. On one hand, if your child is into science, check out the Planetarium or if they are into history, visit the Historic Center for a tour. Or if they really want pure fun and excitement then go to water parks where your children could spend their day and be captivated by the water sports/activities. At the water parks, your entire family can spend time on hot springs and adrenaline-pumping adventure at the water slides.
The best way to end your night could be in the clubs situated around the city. With good food, good drinks, good vibe and ambiance, it is the perfect getaway for those who are tired of their day’s activities in the city. Here are some bars/nightclubs/discos you may want to try:
• Bariachi
• Caballo Negro
• Copacabana
• Copenhagen77
• El Piano
• Bariachi
• Caballo Negro
• Copacabana
• Copenhagen77
• El Piano
It will be further advisable if you could study little Spanish to help you converse with the locals to make things easier if you are bargaining at the market or just simply purchasing any goods. This is a perfect place to stay because you are surrounded by picturesque scenery that can only be found in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Mexico Famous Landmarks
Chichen Itza in Yucatan Peninsula
Chichen Itza was founded by the Maya in 400 A.D. and is located in the north central Yucatan Peninsula, now called Mexico. Chichen is located 75 miles from Merida and has a history of 1500 years. It was the primary location for different ceremonies and is believed to have been governed by priests. Chichen Itza means “At the mouth of the well of Itza”. The word Chi stands for ‘mouth’, Chen for ‘well’ and Itza for ‘the Itza tribe’. The people who lived there are believed to have sacrificed objects and humans to their god. Those who survived the ordeal were thought to be seers.
The site contains many buildings and temples of stone in various stages of preservation. The site is built in different architectural styles that show a cultural mix of Mayan and non-Mayan civilization. The Chichen Itza site has three divisions in total: the north, central, and south groups. One group is in the Toltec style, and the others give an idea about the Chichen Itzan culture. Since the site is one of the most famous Mayan Pyramids, it has been thoroughly researched by private agencies.
Chichen Itza is now a federal property maintained by Mexico’s national Institute of Anthropology and History. The best time for site seeing is either early morning or late in the afternoon.
Calakmul
For people who think that Mexico is just for non-stop partying and stretches of luxurious beach and vacation resorts, think again! History nuts, “relic hunters,” and visitors, who just want a more culturally rich experience, rejoice! Mexico will certainly not disappoint you! Mexico is also home to a rich and ancient history, with some of the remains of ancient kingdoms still well-preserved and intact. One of these sites is Calakmul. This area is the site of one of the largest ancient cities by the Mayan civilization that has ever uncovered. This site is located in the Mexican state of Campeche, in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve which has an area of 1,800,000 acres. Calakmul is surrounded by a jungle region and is only 30 kilometers from Mexico’s border with Guatemala.
Calakmul is a popular destination for those who want a lot of history and culture because there are a lot of structures in this Maya region. Moreover, most of these structures have been recovered intact. Calakmul has 117 obelisks, which represents representing rulers and their wives in paired sets. This figure is the largest obelisk count in the region. The bad news is, these carved obelisks were made out of soft limestone, and the weather, wear and tear has eroded most of them beyond interpretation.
Murals are also present in Calakmul. These Calakmul murals are a bit different from the others found in ancient Maya sites, as the latter depict activities of the elite class. In the Calakmul mural, market scenes are depicted, where people are seen preparing or consuming products such as tobacco, tamale, and atole, while vendors are selling needles and textiles. There are glyphs in the murals which are supposed to describe the activities. There are also ceramic remains with interesting designs in the area, which will sure fascinate archeological fans.
Teotihuacán Pyramids in the Valley of Mexico
Teotihuacán is a sacred site that is about 30 miles northeast from Mexico City, Mexico. This is a very popular area to visit from the city, as these ruins are among Mexico’s most remarkable sites. Some historians consider them to be amongst the most important in the world. Teotihuacán was built about 300 AD and is characterized by enormous monuments that have been carefully laid out based on symbolic and geometric principles.
The Temple of Quetzalcoatl is one of its most monumental structures, located in the center of the area. It boasts fine decoration and lavish offerings. The front of the temple has large, finely carved serpent heads that jut out from feathered collars that are carved into its stone walls. This temple has a pyramid built on top of it called the Feathered Serpent Pyramid. Here over 200 ceremonially buried warriors’ skeletons have been found by archaeologists.
The Pyramid of the Sun is positioned on the Avenue of the Dead’s east side. It is the third biggest pyramid in the world and the largest pyramid that has been restored in the Western Hemisphere. This structure has not been completely understood yet, but it is built over a sacred cave that has the shape of a four leaf clover. The first part of the Pyramid was built about 100 BC and was completed 400 years later.
The Pyramid of the Moon faces the northern plaza and has no discovered features in its interior. It is smaller than its neighboring pyramid but appears to be the same since it is built on higher ground. This pyramid seems to have been built in a pattern to reflect the sacred Cerro Gordo Mountain to the north.
San Miguel de Allende
When people think of Mexico’s historic past, it’s either they picture ruins of ancient civilizations from the Mayan, Aztec, or Olmec times, or they might be looking at Spanish influenced towns that have retained a distinctively colonial flavor. If you’re looking for the latter to spice up your vacation itinerary, then you are in luck! Mexico has a lot of colonial towns that invoke both luxurious and classic charms. A very good example is the town of San Miguel de Allende.
San Miguel de Allende is in the state of Guanajuato in Mexico. This historic town was established in 1542 and has attracted certain type of visitor when it comes to tourism – this town has become a haven for rich residents of the capital Mexico City residents and has been a go-to city for American and Canadian expatriates and retirees.
If you want to explore the wonders of this splendid place, it would be best to go there during the early summer months. The city is a co-host along with Guanajuato of the Expresión en Corto International Film Festival, Latin America’s most prestigious and largest film festival. The film festival has free admission to the public with over 400 films that run in 16 sites until 4 in the morning.
You may also want to visit the newly restored mural in fresco at the city’s Escuela Universitaria de Bellas Artes.This mural was painted by American artist Eleanor Coen, the first woman employee of the TGP (Taller de Grafica Popular). The mural shows women and children washing at a river.
Alas, there’s always time for shopping in this town. Shopping in San Miguel de Allende is a dream for shopaholic – Mexican handicrafts, art galleries, boutiques and shops specializing in furniture and home decor are all available for your shopping pleasure!
