A global turning point
Spain came to govern what is now Mexico, Central America, and parts of the United States, as well as most of the western hemisphere, in the decades and centuries that followed that fateful summer 500 years ago. The most powerful European empire in the early modern age was able to exploit this vast region in a variety of ways, from mineral and plant exploitation to outright enslavement of Indigenous peoples. Between 1500 and 1800, New World mines generated over 80% of all silver mined worldwide. According to my calculations, from the advent of Columbus and the beginning of the twentieth century, 2.5 to 5 million Native Americans were enslaved on the American continent as a result of this massive extractive activity.
The European takeover of America had significant ramifications for the rest of the world, in addition to such horrific effects for the Americas. The continent's resources provided Europeans just enough of an advantage to spearhead the industrial revolution and gain dominance until recently. Parts of China, Japan, and India had technological and institutional progress equivalent to that of Europe in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Nonetheless, the open exploitation of the Americas, which began with the conquest of Mexico, allowed some sections of the Old World to expand their population and wealth, allowing them to catch up to the rest of the world.
Mexico became a key crossroads between East and West as a result of the Spanish invasion. Cortés built a beachhead on the Pacific coast within nine months after the fall of Tenochtitlan. In 1522, he wrote to the Spanish monarch, "I have begun building ships and brigantines to explore all the secrets of that coast," and "this will definitely reveal wondrous things." Cortés embarked on a voyage from Mexico to Asia in 1527-1528. Annual Spanish galleons connected Asia with the Americas by the 1560s, paving the way for the modern global world.
National narrative
When I gathered with my family and friends in Mexico City to discuss the quin centennial, few appeared really interested. COVID-19 has resulted in Mexico's greatest economic downturn since the 1930s, thus the conversation naturally turned to lost jobs, street insecurity, and plans to relocate to greener pastures.
Despite this, some of them were captivated by the sheer number of anniversaries that occurred during this pivotal pandemic year. While the city-demise state's in 1521 may not seem noteworthy, Mexicans are also commemorating the end of Mexico's wars of independence from Spain in September 1821. The conquest of 500 years corresponds with the consumption of 200 years of independence, with the one marked as a tragedy in August and the second as a celebration in September.
As if that wasn't enough, the Mexican president and officials in Mexico City added a third big celebration to the calendar this year: the 700th anniversary of the Aztec Empire's beginning in May of 1321. (even though the date remains controversial, as early sources are vague and sometimes refer to 1325 rather than 1321).
Nonetheless, there is a logical reason for stacking three important commemorations in a row. The nation of Mexico began to take shape some 700 years ago, when Indigenous people arrived in the Valley of Mexico and saw an eagle eating a serpent on an island in the midst of a lake—a scenario commemorated on the Mexican flag today. The nation was momentarily stolen by Spain 500 years ago, and it was finally—and triumphantly—restored 200 years ago.
New traditions and meanings
Meanwhile, men and women on the streets of Mexico continue to struggle with such historical landmarks in their own unique ways, generating new traditions and meanings in the process. The "Tree of the Victorious Night's" modest plaza is possibly the best example of this method. Despite the fact that the cypress was reduced to a scorched stump in 1980 due to a pyrotechnics accident, it continues to attract people and invite reinterpretation.
A community organizer named Amalia Rosas gave a class on pre-contact meals during a recent day of plaza festivities in late June. Rosas urged guests to abandon processed foods in favor of beans, squash, corn, and other wholesome foods of our pre-Columbian ancestors, at a time when Mexicans have some of the world's highest rates of obesity and diabetes.
A new artwork was also presented in the plaza, representing Spaniards fleeing Tenochtitlan and forcing Indigenous porters to carry heavy burdens while the conquistadors themselves fend against Aztec warrior attacks. "Cuitláhuac unleashed the offensive" as they [the Spaniards] retreated loaded with riches, according to the accompanying text.
Other Mexicans, on the other hand, are suspicious. I noticed an older couple loitering around the tree stump during one of my visits. The woman read the new sign describing the spot as a place of victory and happiness while the man took shots of the stump with burnt limbs sticking up. "History has been distorted so much," she said regretfully to no one in particular.
Let's take a look at this amazing collection from Aztec Mural Art
Aztec Mexico Aztec Mexican Mural Art
We are the only company in the world that manufactures authentic products with an Aztec influence. Our products are designed to be worn by people of all ages, and we have many different designs including shirts, bags, jewelry, home goods and more! Check us out at AM Style Design Aztec Mural Art today!
Aztec Mexico Mex I Can Aztec Mexican Mural Art
The Aztec culture is one of the most fascinating in history. Their rich and vibrant artwork is still seen all over Mexico today, including their famous Mexican Mural Art. This blog post will explore some of the amazing pieces that are available to purchase, everything from jewelry to home decors items!
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