Mexico, a country renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse history, continues to surprise us with its wealth of lesser-known facts and captivating stories. This article takes you on a journey through five fascinating insights into Mexico’s historical ties, unique traditions, military history, culinary love, and a remarkable diplomatic stance.
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1. U.S. Territories: Mexico’s Historical Legacy
What we know today as American states like Texas, California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, most of Arizona and Colorado, and portions of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Wyoming, were once part of Mexico’s territory. Texas’s journey from being a Mexican region to becoming an independent country in 1836, and then being annexed to the United States in 1845, is a significant chapter of history. Moreover, following the war of 1848, the aforementioned territories transitioned from Mexican governance to the U.S. Interestingly, the state of New Mexico was named prior to the country of Mexico achieving its independence.
2. A Peek into the Unique Burial Customs
Mexico’s burial traditions offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural fabric of the country. There existed a time when graves were maintained based on subscriptions, and an inability to pay could lead to exhumation. In the Day of the Dead tradition from Pomuch, known as Choo Ba’ak, families clean the bones of their deceased relatives, exemplifying a unique custom of remembrance and respect.
3. The Irish Connection in the Mexican Army
The St. Patrick’s Battalion in the Mexican Army was largely composed of Irish Catholic immigrants. These soldiers had deserted the U.S. Army to fight for Mexico, resonating with the Mexican cause due to the parallels they drew between the situations in Mexico and their homeland, Ireland.
4. Mexico’s Affection for Eggs
Eggs are an indispensable part of a Mexican breakfast, considered a “sacred” meal that must not be skipped. Whether it’s household kitchens or restaurant menus, eggs are a prevalent choice. This fondness for eggs is validated by the fact that Mexico surpassed Japan to become the world’s top consumer of eggs in 2021, with an astonishing 409 eggs consumed per person.
5. A Square in Vienna Honoring Mexico’s Bold Stand
Mexico’s diplomatic history is marked by its solitary protest against the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany. To commemorate this valiant stance, a square in Vienna has been aptly named “Mexikoplatz“. This tribute symbolizes Mexico’s firm opposition to aggressive expansionist policies and its unwavering support for national sovereignty.