By Mary Freeman
The 14th largest nation in the world,
Mexico lies just south of the U.S. and north of
Central America. While it is currently a popular vacation destination, most people are also familiar with the fact that it was home to the Aztecs and once ruled by Spain.
The Meaning of the Flag
Mexican Flag
The most identifying mark of the Mexican flag is its center emblem. It depicts the sign that according to legends was sent to the Aztec people by the god Huitzilopochtli, an eagle devouring a snake atop a Napol cactus, which showed the Aztecs exactly where to build their empire. This happened to be on an island in the middle of a lake, which is where they founded Tenochtitlan, now known as Mexico City, the country's capital.
Significance in the Latin World
Mexico is one of the most prominent and well-known Latin American countries and for good reason. After Brazil and Argentina, Mexico is the third largest country in the Latin world.
Sports in Mexico
Bulls fighting
In 1970 and 1986 Mexico hosted the FIFA World Cup soccer championships. In 1968 Mexico became the first, and only, Latin American country to host the Olympic Games.
Silver in Mexico
Mexico is in the Silver Belt of the world and is the leading exporter of silver.
The Flag's Colors
The emblem is set on a tri-colored background. The meaning of the colors has changed throughout history. Green once meant independence from Spain, but now represents hope. When the country was less secular white stood for religion; currently it represents either unity or purity. The union between Europeans and Americans was represented by the color red; now that color signifies the blood of national heroes
Bullfighting in Mexico
Mexico is home to the largest bullfighting arena in the world, the Mexico City Arena, which seats 50,000.
Mexican Food
Mexicans introduced the world to chocolate, corn and chilies. All play an important role in the country's cuisine.
Tequila in Mexico
A famous export, tequila, is made from blue agave and was named after the city where it was first made popular.
Catholicism
At one time the country's official religion, Mexico has the second largest number of Catholics in the Latin World.
Spanish
Mexico is home more Spanish speakers than any other country in the world, including Spain.
About the Author:
Mary Freeman is a freelance writer. She has held several editorial positions at the print publication, "The Otter Realm." She traveled throughout Europe, which ultimately resulted in an impromptu move to London, where she stayed for eight months. This life experience inspired her to pursue travel writing. Freeman received a degree in human communication from California State University.
