Mexican history is both long and rich. As early as 300 B.C., indigenous people inhabited the area now known as Mexico. Over the years, various tribal groups vied for power and created longstanding cultural traditions. Eventually Spanish Conquistadors took over the area, mixing language and Mexican history forever. The history of Mexico reflects a fascinating combination of ancient peoples and European settlers.
The ancient Mayans are famous for their mastery and innovation in the areas of math and science, which deserves them the right to be remembered in Mexican history for a long time to come. The Mayans built large, intricate cities, many of which are still standing today. Some have even been left untouched for the most part, and can be part of a fascinating Mexican tour. By the 1400's, however, a tribal group called the Aztecans, also known as the Mexicas, had completely taken over control of most surrounding tribes in the area. Building further on the ancient Mayan civilizations, the Aztecans subjugated groups and created on ruling religion. Their capital city, Tenochtitlan, is still the capital city of Mexico today, now known as Mexico City. Interestingly, in 1519 Tenochtitlan was the largest city in the world, with a population of over 500,000 people.
One requirement of the widespread Aztecan religion was human sacrifice, a gruesome chapter in Mexican history. The Aztecs believed that the earth would cease to exist if they did not provide human sacrifices each year, and thousands of human sacrifices on any special occasions. Sacrifices were gathered from surrounding tribes, a practice that created problems for the Aztecans, when Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1519. Weary of being offered as human sacrifice, indigenous peoples joined with Spanish forces to defeat the Aztecans. In 1521, the Spanish assumed control of Tenochtitlan, the capital city. Contrary to popular belief, Mexico history actually shows that Spain did not gain control of the rest of the country until 1523.
Along with ships and supplies, the Spanish troops brought along disease to the new country. Many native people who had fought along side the Spanish were wiped out by disease or even forced into slavery. Mexico history reflects this and the country as a whole went through a devastating period as it moved toward colonialism. For the next 300 years, the history of Mexico was dominated by Spanish colonialism and development.
By the 19th century, however, Mexico was ready to declare its independence from Spain. In 1821, the people of Mexico officially declared their independence in the town of Dolores. This declaration kicked off the Mexican War of Independence, which lasted for over a decade. The history of Mexico records September 16th, 1821 as its independence day. Today, Mexican Independence Day remains one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the history of Mexico.
The history of Mexico is an important backdrop for understanding modern day Mexico. A mix of cultures and traditions remain in place today and continued to permeate every day life. For anyone interested in Mexico history, Mexico facts are guaranteed to add a rich interest to your vacation. Learning facts about Mexico will enhance your trip, no matter where your travels take you within the country.
