Spanish - Mexico
3 Culture - "Machismo"
"Machismo" -Machismo means "masculinity" -For example, making remarks to women is a stereotypical sign of machismo and should not be seen as harassment. -Mexican males generally believe that nothing must be allowed to tarnish their image as a man.
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At first, the meaning of the colors of the Army of the Three Guarantees was: -Green: was a sign of independence from Spain. -White: Religion, faith or belief, the Roman Catholic faith. -Red: Union among Americans and Europeans However the meaning of these colors have varied considerably with the passage of time. The last accepted, modern definitions are: -Green: Hope in the future. -White: Unity among the Mexican people. -Red: The blood of the Mexican heroes.
4 Celebrations - Cinco de Mayo (May 5th)
Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) -Cinco de Mayo is often celebrated in the state if Puebla, where Zaragoza's triumph occurred. -Although other parts of the country also take part in the celebration -On May 5th 1862 The French army, sent by Napoleon III, Emperor of the Second French Empire, had arrived in Mexico under the premise of collecting debt from the Mexican government's depleted treasuries. -However, Napoleon III's real intention was to overthrow the elected government and install a monarchy favorable to France. -But independence was prevailed when the Mexican army defeated the larger and more experienced French Army. -The victory was a great source of national pride for the fledgling democracy of Mexico that is celebrated each year ... on Cinco de Mayo -Traditions include military parades, recreations of the Battle of Puebla and other festive events. For many Mexicans, however, May 5 is a day like any other: It is not a federal holiday, so offices, banks and stores remain open.
3 Culture - Dining Etiquette If you are invited to a Mexican's home:
Dining Etiquette If you are invited to a Mexican's home: -Arrive 30 minutes late in most places (check with colleagues to see if you should arrive later than that). -Arriving on time or early is considered inappropriate. -At a large party you may introduce yourself. -At a smaller gathering the host usually handles the introductions.
4 Celebrations - El Grito de Independencia (Independence Day)
El Grito de Independencia (Independence Day) -Every 16th of September, Mexicans celebrate Mexico's independence from Spanish rule. -The date actually marks starts the war for independence which lasted for 10 years. -As you re call from earlier, Trisha talked about the Independence as Father Hidalgo and a group of conspirators rang the bell of his small church and called everyone to fight for liberty. -Today, these scenes are re-enacted in every plaza in Mexico. -Lighted decorations are put up, and people of all ages join in Mexico's biggest fiesta.
3 Culture - Family Values
Family Values -Families are generally large. -The Extended Family is as important as the immediate family. -Mexicans consider it their duty and responsibility to help their family members. Ex: Finding employment for others -Most families are traditional with the father being the head, authority figure, and the decision maker. -Mothers are greatly respected but their role is secondary to their husband.
3 Culture - Gift Giving Etiquette
Gift Giving Etiquette -If invited to a Mexican's house, bring a gift such as flowers or sweets. -Gift wrapping does not follow any particular protocol. -Do not give marigolds as they symbolize death. -Do not give red flowers as they have a negative connotation. -White flowers are a good gift as they are considered uplifting. -Gifts are opened immediately. -If you receive a gift, open it and react enthusiastically.
3 Culture - Hierarchical Society
Hierarchical Society -People respect authority and look to those above them for guidance and decision-making -Rank is important and those above must always be treated with respect. -This makes it important to make people know who is in charge and leading. -Mexicans are very aware of how each individual fits into each hierarchy--be it family, friends or business. -It would be disrespectful to break the chain of hierarchy.
3 Culture Language
Language -More than 100 Native American languages are spoken in Mexico. -80% of those Mexicans who speak an indigenous language also speak Spanish. -The primary language of Native American languages is Nahuati. -A primary language of more than a million Mexicans and is spoken by nearly 1/4 of all Native Americans in the country. -Followed by Maya, 14% of Native Americans -Then Mixteco and Zapoteco , 7% each -And other indegenous language is spoken no more than 5%
4 Celebrations - Las Posadas
Las Posadas -Begins on the 16th of December and continues for the next nine nights. -Participants remember the long journey undertaken by Joseph and Mary, and their search for lodging in Bethlehem -"posada" means shelter -A woman and man portraying Mary and Joseph lead the procession, followed by children in the roles of angels, The Three Kings, and shepherds. -Others carry candles, paper lanterns and banners as they proceed from house to house in search of a place to stay. -At each residence along the procession route they are refused shelter, until at last, they are welcomed in at the last home. -Then, a grand party with food for all is held.
4 Celebrations - Los Dias de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Los Dias de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) -a Mexican celebration of both life and death -Held on November 1st and 2nd, celebrants honor the spirit of family ancestors. -Spirits of children are thought to return on the 1st and adults on the 2nd. -Altars are built, and then covered with food and decorations. -Cemeteries are decorated with fresh flowers. -Through music and feasting, everyone embraces the totality of both life and death. It is a time of celebration.
3 Culture - Meeting Etiquettes
Meeting Etiquettes -When greeting in social situations, women pat each other on the right forearm or shoulder, rather than shake hands -Men shake hands until they know someone well, at which time they progress to the more traditional hug and back slapping. -Wait until invited before using a Mexican's first name
2 Points of interest
Museo de Arte Popular -A museum dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Mexican handcrafts and folk art. Displayed are textiles, pottery, glass, furniture, etc. Piramides of Teotihuacan -Located in the area of Teotihuacan (northeast of Mexico City) is a gigantic archaeological site. It has some of the largest Mesoamerican pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. The current name, Teotihuacan, was given by the Aztecs and means "the place where the Gods were created". Acapulco -A getaway resort for Hollywood stars and millionaires. Acapulco continues to be a tourist destination especially among Mexicans and US college students for their spring break. Guanjuato -Really, the picture says it all. The city is also home to the Mummy Museum, which contains naturally mummified bodies that were found in the municipal cemetery between the mid 19th and 20th centuries. GoTan Restaurante Argentino -Steak Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec) -A huge park located inside Mexico City. There are many attractions in the park like the zoo, lakes, and Chapultepec Castle!
2 Points of interest
Points of interest Mexico is known (still is) to be one of the world's most popular vacation destination. Mexico expects over 20 million foreign visitors a year. Mexico continues to attract tourists with its wonderful sand of its many resorts and you will find some of the finest architecture. Different places to visit in Mexico (variety)
3 Culture - Watch your table manners!
Watch your table manners! -Always keep your hands visible when eating. Keep your wrists resting on the edge of the table. -When you have finished eating, place your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs facing down and the handles facing to the right. -Do not sit down until you are invited to and told where to sit. -Do not begin eating until the hostess starts. -Only men give toasts. -It is polite to leave some food on your plate after a meal.
