Mexico
Its history is written in the blood of conquest. Forged in the conflict between the Old and New Worlds, it is Mexico. From the glory of Incan and Mayan cultures to the chaotic heart of the modern capital, from Cortes’ arrival to Pancho Villa’s famous raid, Mexico travels across the country and through its past. It is a compelling chronicle of a land shaped by the rise and fall of empires, the exploits of men like Montezuma and Maximillian, and near-constant battles for freedom, sovereignty and independence. Mexico would be useful for classes on Mexican History, World History, Hispanic Culture, American History and Geography. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Mexico fulfills the following National Standards for World History for grades 5-12: Chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretation, historical research capabilities, historical issues-analysis and decision-making for Eras 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.
Part 3, Battle for North America
As hard as the struggle for freedom from Spain was, the first decades of autonomy were perhaps even more difficult for Mexico. Its hard-won victory was seemingly squandered in a vicious cycle of war and tyranny embodied by Santa Anna, the flamboyant general who gave away Texas in exchange for his life.
Students will observe the events that changed the land of Mexico from a glorious empire to a colonized society, and finally to an independent nation. They will analyze the differences in a society ruled by indigenous peoples and one ruled by foreign invaders, and how these societies combined to form a new and unique society that eventually becomes modern day Mexico. They will also learn how world events impact societies and influence their histories, and how global events shaped Mexico.
Discussion Questions
-
1. Why did France attack Mexico in the “Pastry War?”
-
2. Santa Anna, one of Mexican history’s most flamboyant characters both helped and hindered his country. Discuss Santa Anna’s strengths and weaknesses, and they how they impacted Mexico.
-
3. Why did United States President, James Polk, annex Texas? What was Mexico’s reaction?
-
4. How did the Mexican War start?
-
5. The annexation of Texas caused turmoil in the United States. How did the annexation upset the delicate balance between slave holding and non-slave holding states?
-
6. The battle at Vera Cruz was different for Mexicans than any other battle previously fought. Why?
-
7. How might Mexican and American history be different if there never was a Mexican-American war?
-
8. Discuss the threat of Benito Juarez to the conservative factions in Mexico.
-
9. How did Mexican and French history intersect?
Extended Activities
-
Create a recruitment poster for the Mexican war.
-
Draw before and after maps of the United States and Mexico after the Mexican War. How did these countries change?
-
Create a timeline illustrating the life and turbulent career of Santa Anna.
Related Videos
Air Dates
