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How did the Mexican Revolution impact cultural traditions and practices in Mexico?

Zula Rouby

The Mexican Revolution of 1910-1920 had a profound impact on cultural traditions and practices in Mexico. The revolution was a time of great upheaval and change in the country, as Mexicans sought to overthrow the corrupt dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz and establish a more democratic and just society. The revolution brought about many changes in various aspects of Mexican life, including arts, literature, music, and cuisine.

One of the most significant ways that the Mexican Revolution impacted cultural traditions and practices in Mexico was through the promotion of cultural nationalism. The Mexican Revolution was a time when Mexicans were more willing to embrace their own culture and traditions, and less likely to be influenced by foreign cultures. This was reflected in the arts, which became more focused on Mexican themes and motifs. Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco produced powerful murals that celebrated Mexico’s indigenous heritage and its struggles for social justice.

The revolution also had a profound impact on literature. Mexican writers such as Mariano Azuela, Carlos Fuentes, and Octavio Paz began to explore the social and political issues of their time in their work. They wrote about the struggles of the poor, the corruption of the ruling elite, and the need for social justice. These writers helped to create a new literary movement in Mexico, which was characterized by its commitment to social realism and its celebration of Mexican culture and identity.

The revolution also had a significant impact on music. Mexican musicians began to incorporate traditional folk music into their compositions, creating a new style of music known as ‘música ranchera’. This style of music celebrated Mexico’s rural heritage and helped to create a sense of national identity among Mexicans. Music also played an important role in the revolution itself, with revolutionary songs such as ‘La Cucaracha’ and ‘Adelita’ becoming anthems for the revolutionary cause.

The impact of the Mexican Revolution can also be seen in cuisine. The revolution led to widespread poverty and hunger, which forced Mexicans to become resourceful in their cooking. Traditional ingredients such as beans, rice, and corn became staples of Mexican cuisine, and new dishes such as ‘tacos al pastor’ and ‘chiles en nogada’ were created. The revolution also led to the rise of ‘antojitos’, which are traditional Mexican snacks such as quesadillas, tamales, and gorditas.

In conclusion, the Mexican Revolution had a profound impact on cultural traditions and practices in Mexico. It helped to promote cultural nationalism, which led to the creation of a new sense of national identity among Mexicans. The revolution also inspired a new wave of artistic and literary creativity, which celebrated Mexico’s heritage and struggles for social justice. Music and cuisine were also impacted by the revolution, with traditional Mexican rhythms and dishes becoming more popular. Overall, the impact of the Mexican Revolution on Mexican culture and society cannot be overstated. It helped to shape the modern Mexican identity and continues to influence artistic and cultural expressions in Mexico today.