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What are some lesser-known Mexican historical figures or events that deserve more attention?

Joe Tschierse

Hey there!

When it comes to Mexican historical figures and events, there are certainly many that people may not be familiar with or that don't get as much attention as they should. Here are a few that come to mind:

1. Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz: While Sor Juana is certainly a well-known figure in Mexican history, I think more people should be aware of her groundbreaking contributions to literature and feminism. She was a self-taught scholar, poet, and playwright in the 17th century who challenged societal norms of her time and advocated for women's right to education.

2. La Cristiada: This was a series of uprisings that took place in Mexico in the 1920s and 30s in response to the government's anti-Catholic policies. The movement was largely led by rural peasants and it resulted in a violent conflict between the rebels and the government. While it is a significant event in Mexican history, it is one that is not often discussed in the same context as the Mexican Revolution.

3. Vicente Guerrero: Guerrero is often overshadowed by figures like Benito Juárez and Emiliano Zapata, but he was a crucial figure in Mexico's fight for independence from Spain. Guerrero was a general in the independence army and later became Mexico's second president. As a mixed-race man, he also represented a significant departure from the typical white European leaders of his time.

4. The Batalla del 5 de Mayo: While the Battle of Puebla is often celebrated in Mexico and the United States as Cinco de Mayo, there is often confusion about what the holiday actually commemorates. The battle was a significant moment in Mexico's fight against French imperialism, and it served as a symbol of Mexican resilience in the face of oppression. However, it is important to remember that the battle was not a decisive victory and that the French ultimately went on to occupy Mexico for several years.

These are just a few examples, but I think they illustrate the diversity and complexity of Mexican history beyond what is often taught in schools or celebrated in popular culture. It's important to remember that history is always open to interpretation and that there are always more stories to discover and explore.

Hope this helps!