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 4, Revolution and Rebirth
By the end of the 19th century, Mexico was exhausted from years of fighting. But the battles were not over. After thirty years of iron-fisted rule, the nation rose up against the dictator Porfirio Diaz. Before the dust finally settled, new legends were made and Mexico was transformed yet again.
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
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Describe Mexico in the 1870s. Why were the country and the Mexican peasants in such poor condition?
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How did dictator Porfirio Diaz attempt to stabilize the country?
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Border towns such as Tijuana became areas in which crime was rife. How did these border towns illustrate the disparity between the United States and Mexico?
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What were some of Diaz’s accomplishments?
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Although Diaz accomplished many things, such as building the infrastructure and attracting foreign investments, most peasants’ lives remained the same or worse. Discuss how Diaz’s improvements did not benefit the Mexican peasants but the rich elite instead.
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Discuss the exploitation of Mexican workers.
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What is Social Darwinism? How did Diaz use this ideology to justify his rule in Mexico and the deplorable conditions for Mexican peasants?
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Why was Pancho Villa, a man with a criminal record, able to command an army?
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Compare revolutionary leaders Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata.
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Discuss the conditions of modern-day Mexico and the possible future of the country.
Extended Activities
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Create a “Wanted” poster for Pancho Villa.
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Create a timeline for the history of Mexico.
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