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 Cultures
The 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.
Architecture
Mexico 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.
Cuisine
Mexico 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.
Climate
Some of Mexico has a tropical climate and is
known as a popular vacation spot for many
Americans.
Traditional Arts
Mexico is known for a rich history in arts and
crafts. Many colorful handmade items are sold
at open markets alongside fresh food items.
Clothing
The 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.
Bullfighting
A 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.
Literature
Notable classic Mexican writers and poets
include:
Juan Ruiz de Alarcón and Sor Juana Inés de la
Cruz.