Mexico has more to offer than margaritas, tequila, and breathtaking beaches – it’s packed full of surprising and fascinating facts that’ll make any future journey even more intriguing!
Did you know that Mexico City, its capital, continues to gradually sink each year, or that Mexico hosts one of the smallest volcanoes on the planet?
1. Mexico is the largest country in the Western Hemisphere
Mexico is a country in North America located to the south of the United States, Guatemala and Belize in Central America; to its east lie the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. Mexico largely consists of mountains with an inland desert area; climate ranges between tropical and temperate; boasts diverse plant species; has abundant oil, silver, copper, tin and gold resources; boasts tropical weather patterns.
Mexican is home to one of the world’s largest economies, boasting a powerful manufacturing and agriculture sector as well as an expansive oil industry and complex financial system. Additionally, the Mexican economy is well known for its cultural diversity as well as strong trade ties with neighboring nations.
Mexico City, the most populous urban center in Latin America, was constructed on the reclaimed remains of Tenochtitlan – once an island-capital of the Aztec empire – to become one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on the planet. Home to about 110 million inhabitants (roughly one fifth of Mexico’s total population), its metro areas cover an area that spans around 110 square miles with high standard living and serve as economic, political, and cultural centers of Mexico City and surrounding metropolitan areas.
Mexico once experienced rapid economic development as it industrialized and urbanized, yet family size and fertility rates have decreased over time, leading to slower population growth.
Mexico is covered with dense forest. Pine-oak forests in Sierra Madre Oriental and tropical rainforests on Yucatan Peninsula provide important natural resources, as do numerous reptile and mammal species found throughout its territory.
Mexico is a federal republic governed by its president. Its constitution guarantees civil liberties and facilitates free markets with democratic government; power distribution between executive and legislative branches; Mexico has an impressive economy which belongs to North American Free Trade Agreement and Trans-Pacific Partnership agreements; it is also an attractive tourist destination and often attracts foreign investment due to its high quality of life, diversified agricultural sector, low labor costs and growing industrial base.
2. It is the second largest country in the Americas
Mexico is an engaging and diverse nation with a millennia-long history that spans back millennia. It boasts an influential culture which can be found through cuisine, art and holidays around the globe. Home to second largest population in Latin America with significant economic ramifications spanning across its region; Mexico operates under federal republic government and comprises two branches: Executive (the President) and Legislative (Congress and Supreme Court).
Mexico’s president is elected by popular vote for a six-year term, maintaining Mexico’s strong democratic tradition while upholding an inclusive culture of tolerance and diversity. There are various ethnic groups within Mexico; most citizens, however, are of Mexican origin with Mestizos having mixed European and Indian ancestry while Criollos may only trace back their ancestry back as far as European descent.
Mexico is home to ancient pyramids that attest to the advanced engineering and astrological knowledge of its early civilizations, providing proof of their prowess as engineers and astral specialists. These structures are just one of many incredible wonders Mexico offers its visitors. Additionally, this country hosts various indigenous languages like Nahuatl, Maya, and Zapotec that the government works tirelessly to preserve while encouraging people to learn these unique languages.
Agriculture is an integral component of Mexico’s economy, providing employment to 12% of its population and strengthening trade ties with the US. Agriculture also serves as an essential source of food and energy production. Unfortunately, however, Mexico’s agricultural industry faces numerous obstacles including climate change and rising levels of violence.
Though Mexico’s economy is growing, there remain several issues that need to be addressed. For example, there is still high poverty rates and an underfunded informal economy. Furthermore, education spending compared to other OECD countries remains inadequate. Despite these obstacles, Mexico continues to make strides toward improving its economy through socially progressive policies that reduce inequality and foster economic expansion.
3. It is the largest country in the Western Hemisphere by area
Mexico is the largest country in Western Hemisphere by area and one of its most diverse. This diversity can be seen both culturally and environmentaly – giving Mexico its distinct identity.
Mexico is a democratic republic governed by principles of separation of powers and checks and balances, with its government structure reflecting this ideal. Presidents are elected for six-year terms while legislative branches consist of both chambers of congress. Finally, an independent and impartial judicial branch exists with powers to review laws passed by both chambers of congress.
Mexicans are well known for their warmth and hospitality, their delicious cuisine and love of celebrating life together with family and friends. One such celebration is Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), an annual holiday honoring deceased loved ones through food, dance and music celebration.
Art is an integral component of Mexican culture and identity, with Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo and Salvador Dali among its most celebrated artists having an impactful effect. Their works reflect Mexico’s rich history as they often deal with social politics or revolution; additionally they are famed for using bright colors and abstract imagery.
Mexico is predominantly Catholic, and the Virgin of Guadalupe stands as an iconic figure to many Mexicans. But Mexico also features numerous other religious communities such as Protestants, Evangelicals and Jehovah’s Witnesses; popular religiosity (which combines Catholic beliefs with indigenous and African traditions) can also be found among its population.
Mexico lies along the northern edge of North American Plate, making up part of Pacific Ring of Fire region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Citlaltepetl and Popocatepetl are active volcanoes within Mexico’s borders.
Mexico’s rich diversity is due to its varied climate, geology and topography. Mexico’s mountains, deserts and rainforests offer habitats for many plant and animal species – making Mexico an important biodiversity hotspot and world leader in conservation efforts.
4. It is the second largest country in the Western Hemisphere by population
Mexico is renowned for its millennia-old cultural legacy and breathtaking natural diversity, boasting mountain ranges, flat plains and sandy beaches across its expansive territory. Home to numerous volcanoes as well as the second-largest coral reef on earth. Mexico’s economy relies on agriculture, manufacturing and service industries; major trade partners include the U.S. It has emerged as one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies over recent years and remains a top tourism destination.
Mexico City, home to over 20 million inhabitants worldwide, boasts one of the highest population densities. Renowned for its vibrant culture and cuisine, as well as numerous festivals such as Day of the Dead which is celebrated over two days every November originating from both Mayan and Aztec cultures, this festival attracts millions each year to Mexico City.
Mexico boasts many fascinating facts, but lesser-known ones include its vibrant arts and education scenes. UNAM (National Autonomous University of Mexico) is the world’s largest university with over 70,000 students. They offer various degree programs.
Mexico stands out as an interesting nation because of its extensive biodiversity. From tropical rainforests and mountain ranges, to temperate zones and desert climates, its climate varies significantly across its territory – offering outdoor enthusiasts plenty of nature reserves and protected areas to visit.
Mexico is home to 68 indigenous languages that are being preserved through bilingual education in both Spanish and the native tongue. Many schools also provide instruction in both languages for optimal learning experiences.
Mexico boasts more pyramids than Egypt! These monuments were constructed by Aztec and Mayan cultures and serve as reminders of their superior engineering and astronomical knowledge. Mexico’s tallest pyramid can be found in Puebla; at 66 meters with a base area of 400 meters it stands almost twice tall as Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza!