A Brief History of Mexico

There are 5 major civilizations that made great influences to Mexico. It includes the Olmec, Teotihuacan, Maya, Toltec, and Mexica empires. The Olmec civilization prospered between 1200 BCE and 400 BCE. After the Olmec started to lose power, the Teotihuacan gained authority and ruled from 150 AD to 650 AD. The Teotihuacan built a new economic and political Mexico. By 500 AD, Teotihuacan had developed into one of the largest cities in the world. The Toltec era began its stature as a political and cultural command during the 700 AD. Its empire stretched as far south as Central America. The Mexica, desert people and one of the 7 groups formerly called “Aztecs”, inherited domination after the fall of the Toltec civilization. It continued to expand its political power especially after becoming the rulers of Central Mexico as leader of the Triple Alliance. In 1519, Tenochititlan, the Mexican capital and future site of modern Mexico City, was the largest capital in the world with a total population of more than 360,000.

The capital city of Tenochititlan was occupied by Spain in 1521. The Spanish regime lasted for almost than 300 years. Mexico was known during that time as “Nueva Espa ña” or “New Spain”. When Napoleon I attacked Spain in 1807, Mexico took advantage of the situation. Through the leadership of a catholic priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, Mexico declared independence on September 16, 1810 in the small town of Dolores. Other important personalities that took part in Mexico’s quest for independence include Vicente Guerrero, Agustin de Iturbide, and Jose Maria Morelos. Mexico achieved its sovereignty through the Treaty of Cordoba which was signed in August 24, 1821. The first Republic was established immediately after Mexico gained independence. In the 19th century, several presidents, dictators and political figures played important roles especially during the Mexican-American War, the War of Reform, French Intervention, the Mexican Revolution, and the Cristero War. Introduction