Mexico
Mexico, officially known as the United Mexican States (Estados Unidos Mexicanos), is a country in the southern part of North America. It shares borders with the United States to the north, Belize and Guatemala to the southeast, and is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and the Gulf of Mexico to the east.
History
- Pre-Columbian Era: Mexico was home to several advanced civilizations before the arrival of Europeans. These include the Olmecs, Maya, Teotihuacan, Toltecs, and the Aztecs.
- Colonial Period: In 1521, Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, overthrew the Aztec Empire, leading to nearly three centuries of Spanish rule. This period saw the introduction of Christianity, the Spanish language, and significant cultural changes.
- Independence: Mexico gained independence from Spain on September 16, 1821, following the Mexican War of Independence which began in 1810. The movement was led by figures like Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and José María Morelos.
- 19th and 20th Century: The 19th century was marked by political instability, including the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), which resulted in the loss of a significant portion of its territory to the United States. The Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) was a pivotal event, leading to land reforms and the establishment of the Constitution of 1917.
- Modern Era: Post-revolution, Mexico has experienced economic growth, political changes, and cultural developments. It joined the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, which has significantly influenced its economy.
Geography
Mexico spans across approximately 1,964,375 square kilometers, making it the 13th largest country in the world by area. The country's terrain varies from mountains, high plateaus, and desert to coastal plains and tropical forests. Notable geographical features include:
Culture
Mexico's culture is a rich blend of indigenous and Spanish influences:
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but there are also numerous indigenous languages spoken.
- Religion: The majority of the population practices Catholicism, with significant indigenous religious practices.
- Arts: Known for its vibrant art scene, including muralism by artists like Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and José Clemente Orozco.
- Food: Mexican cuisine, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, includes dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and mole.
Economy
Mexico has a mixed economy with strong sectors in:
- Oil and gas, with Pemex being one of the largest companies.
- Manufacturing, especially in automotive and electronics.
- Tourism, with sites like Cancún, Acapulco, and Chichen Itza.
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