Religions of Mesoamerica: Second Edition, Essay Example

Mexico used to be a wealthy colony that was flourishing before it was bothered by political contention and the apparent decline in the economy. Studies and scholars have stated that Mexico used to be at par with the economic standing of the United States of America back in the 18^th century. Even in start of the Atlantic and the triangular trade in the 19^th century, Mexico collapsed. The collapse of the Mexican economy reflected the core struggles, foreign incursions and impoverished times it had to go through. However, it was clear that the remarkable negative difference in the GDP between Mexico and the United States of America (in favor of America) only occurred in the beginning of the 20^th century. Therefore, the economic failure of the country started sometime between the 1820 and 1870. In this regard, this paper explores the various socio-political issues in Mexico after the 1810 as well as the evaluation of whether or not Mexico was really free. Also, this paper discusses the impact of the 300 years Spanish colonialism on Mexico’s ability to stand on its own and become independent.

Socio-Political Issues

One of the most apparent socio-political issues that the country experienced after the year 1810 is political instability and violence. This situation has brought about economic destruction and poverty alongside led by the army. It cannot be denied that the army during this period of time in Mexico did not pave the way for people’s autonomy. Rather, the army became an instrument for corrupt politicians to flourish. The Mexican people were divided between various political parties such as the federalists and the centralists; the monarchists and the republicans; and the conservatives and the liberals. This division has led to a worse case of political violence, societal disorder and violation of an individual’s political, property and human rights accordingly. Menchaca stated that “in the aftermath of the conquest, the Spanish military strategy of divide and conquer effectively created disunity among the Indians of central Mexico and opened the path to a new social order” (55). However, it cannot be denied that such new social order did not get rid of the instability and division among the citizens of the country. Rather, the new nation was exposed to the political leaders and groups that were not capable of leading and governing the nation and its people. Due to the chaotic governmental hierarchy and instability, the Mexican economy was filled with nothing more than uncertainties. Even investors were discouraged and it has impacted the economy adversely. This is due to the lack of stability in the nation in both the political and economic aspects of its existence.

Was Mexico Really Free?

After the 300 years of Spanish colonialism in the country, Mexico has been freed from the Spanish colonialism and political power but that is all there is as far as freedom is concerned. This is particularly reflective of the 300 years of Spanish colonialism in the country. According to Rodolfo Acuna “the intrusion of Western civilizations sought to wipe our people’s historical memory. The languages, written and oral histories, and the religions of millions of indigenous people were eradicated or buried” (xvii). This only means that what used to be an authentic Mexico with its own cultural identity is gone. Independence is not just about being free from the invading power but it entails freedom from any other foreign power domination.

The Spanish colonialism has impacted everything about being “Mexico” from religion and cultural activity. David Carrasco elucidated on this by expressing that “when the two worlds came together they created a wonderfully complex world that we must continue to strive to understand and appreciate” (185).  However, it cannot be denied that what was created is the opposite of a wonderfully complex world. There is no popular sovereignty in the nation. The political class and its decision-making are no longer based on the Constitution. Even the most important decisions such as punishments for acts of terrorism are being spearheaded by the United States of America and not the Mexican citizens. This type of dependence can be attributed to the 300 year of Spanish colonialism in Mexico. The political aspect of the nation seems to be not ready to manage and govern its own country’s political and economic undertakings. The total dependence on other superpower nations in making crucial decisions is not an indication of an independent nation. Rather it is an indication that a country cannot stand on its own and needs an authority higher than its own government for policy and decision-making.

With all the foregoing, it cannot be denied that the Spanish colonialism in Mexico has impacted the country negatively. From a very wealthy and flourishing Mexico, the country is now a struggling country trying to win the battle against corruption, poverty, and violence. It might be free from the Spanish colonialism but it lost its own cultural identity and was replaced by what the Spaniards taught the people- the incorporation of language, culture, religion and ideologies.

Work Cited

Acuna, Rodolfo. Occupied America: A History of Chicanos. New York: Pearson, 2011.

Carrasco, David. Religions of Mesoamerica: Secon Edition. Long Grove, IL: Waveland Press, Inc., 2014.

Menchanca, Martha. Recovering History, Constructing Race. Austin, TX: University of Texas Press, 2002.