Mexico

Mexico has been home to some of the most advanced indigenous peoples in history. The Mayans and Aztecs came up with revolutionary inventions that would forever change the global landscape. These communities continue to have a massive influence in the region. They constitute 10% of Mexico’s population and exhibit their prevalence in festivals like Dia De Los Muertos or in art, which has roots in indigenous methods, as well as food, dance and a plethora of other things. 84% of Mexicans are Christian, and 67% of Christians are Catholics. Religion also plays a role in Día de los Muertos, as well as Semana Santa. Dia de la Raza emerged in order to honor the merging of Indigenous and European cultures. There are many architecturally impressive cathedrals in Mexico from the conquista of Hernan Cortes. Steadfast worship of the Virgin of Guadalupe demonstrates the profound syncretism that rooted itself in Mexican culture between native Animism and Catholicism. Mexico has lots of cartel violence and is the 3rd most dangerous country in Latin America. During, Independence Day, Mexicans show their national pride in the Grito de Dolores. Mexico has a rich history of oil exports, dating back to Lazaro Cardenas’ nationalization of PAMEX. It is also renowned for its output of tequila through agave plants. Mexican art is famous for historical figures like Frida Kahlo who was a pioneering figure in painting. Muralism was a big form of painting which also came from Mexico, dating back to Mayan times. In poetry, Juana Inés de La Cruz continues to exert a large influence. Architecture is variable city-by-city, but there are generally bright colors, blends of indigenous and European styles, and haciendas with adobe walls. Mexico does see immigration from the south, but the vast majority travel from or south of Mexico to the US, seeking asylum. 80% of Mexico’s population lives in urban centers, with the capital city of Mexico City housing the majority. The quinceñera originates from Mexico, a massive celebration recognizing a woman’s transition into adulthood. Mexican food is known around the world. Tacos, burritos, pozole, and other foods of the sort manifest themselves in all corners of the globe. Siesta, as in many other countries, is commonly practiced. This consists of napping during the day and then returning to work. Housing is typically organized by extended families, where grandparents, aunts, uncles, and grandchildren will all live together in big complexes. These family groups are often all found to attend events like parties together too. This makes the familial connection very important. In Mexico, class divisions are very prevalent and see the majority poor's wages distance from the elite's, all the while the middle class shrinks. In rural areas, much of the population is poor, and participates in hard day labor. Machismo is a widespread doctrine in Mexican society, especially amongst the lower class. In music, Mariachi and corridos, or ballads, have found much success in Mexico. Lucha Libre is a style of Mexican wrestling which also points to the country's vibrant culture. Mexico also has a series of national parks, but they are not properly funded, so environmental pollution can happen on the land.