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Mexican History And Culture.
Mexican culture is rich
and varied, with a warm heart and a friendly smile for everyone who ventures
forth to meet the citizens. One weekend spent exploring all that this
amazing, richly historic country has to offer and you'll be shouting "Viva,
Mexico!"
CULTURE
Mexico is one country of many peoples. Just as in the United States, the
society is made up of people from many different backgrounds, often speaking
different languages and with different customs and beliefs. At last count,
there are more than 50 indigenous languages (other than Spanish) spoken in
Mexico. However, Spanish is also understood almost everywhere.
Religion is of great importance in Mexico, with about 90 percent of the
people practicing Roman Catholicism. The many spectacular churches, chapels
and tabernacles all across the country are tremendous tourist attractions,
and you can even find tours that specialize just in churches!
What we refer to as the "social niceties" in the U.S. are of great
importance in Mexico. Friends and acquaintances greet each other warmly and
with great sincerity. If you are not well-versed in Spanish or the Mexican
ways, a warm smile and an offered handshake will take you far. It is the
sincerity, not necessarily the letter-perfection, that is important. As
important as manners are, leisure time is even more vital! The tradition of
the afternoon siesta is observed widely, even in business, and overall there
is less emphasis on the rat race than you may be accustomed to. It's
refreshing!
The education system in Mexico is excellent, with school attendance
mandatory just as it is in the U.S. The national universities offer
top-notch training both for advanced degree study and technical training. If
you like going on vacation to explore a college town or two, you'll have
plenty to choose from!
HISTORY
Mexican history hardly begins with the arrival of the conquistadors. In
fact, Mexico has been settled since at least 20,000 B.C., when migratory
hunters from Asia and Africa made it here. The full picture of Mexican
history cannot, of course, be told on a Web page, but keep in mind three
major influences and you will understand quite a bit.
First, the native cultures: The Maya, Inca, Aztec, Toltec and many other
societies and cultures are ancient, and their language and peoples have
survived the best efforts of European conquerors to eradicate them.
Second, the Spanish: After conquering Mexico, the Spanish understood a
complete transformation of the culture, architecture, society and language.
The Spanish spoken in Mexico today is the most obvious example.
Third, the Northern Border: Mexico's frequent skirmishes and wars with the
young United States shaped both countries and enriched the cultures of both
immeasurably.
Of course that's just the barest outline. Explore Mexico for yourself and
taste the adventure!
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