Background:

The site of advanced Amerindian civilizations, Mexico came under Spanish rule for three centuries before achieving independence early in the 19th century. A devaluation of the peso in late 1994 threw Mexico into economic turmoil, triggering the worst recession in over half a century. The nation continues to make an impressive recovery. Ancient Mexico and Central America were home to some of the earliest and most advanced civilizations in the western hemisphere. Today, Mexican culture is a fascinating blend of Native American traditions and Spanish colonial influences. Long before the Spaniards arrived in the 16th century, the indigenous civilizations of Mexico had developed arts such as ceramics, music, poetry, sculpture, and weaving. After the conquest, the intricate designs and bright colors of many Native American arts were often mixed with European techniques and religious themes to create a hybrid and uniquely Mexican artistic style.

• Industries: food and beverages, tobacco, chemicals, iron and steel, petroleum, mining, textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism
• Imports: metalworking machines, agricultural machinery, electrical equipment, car parts, aircraft
• Exports: manufactured goods, oil and oil products, silver, fruits, vegetables, coffee, cotton

Geography:

• Area: total: 1,972,550 sq km: water: 49,510 sq km, land: 1,923,040 sq km
• Borders: Belize, Guatemala, USA
• Climate: varies from tropical to desert
• Terrain: coastal high, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; desert

• Population: 104,959,594
• Ethnic Groups: mestizo 60%, Amerindian Amerindian 30%, white 9%, other 1%
• Religions: Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 6%, other 5%

• Mexican Culture
• Mexican Tourism Board
• Mexican Embassy, USA
• Online Mexican Newspaper