I’m referring specifically to a phenomenon involving a significant amount of Mexicans and Mexican Americans who are Mestizo. A Mestizo is of both of Amerindian and Spanish decent. I’ve noticed on my trips to Mexico that many people, who I know are Mestizo, deny their Native American heritage. I understand this somewhat seeing as how Natives are on the lowest rung of the social latter. However, I have met many Mestizos’ from the US who completely deny their Spanish heritage, and oddly enough claim they are full blooded Aztec. I say that’s odd because 90% of the Aztec Population was wiped out during the conquest, and even though they held the power in pre-colonial America they were still a minority among other tribes. I suppose it could be true, but it’s not likely all are Aztec. I usually hear some one say something like this: “The Spanish came and took our land and converted us to there religion. We are speaking the language of the conquerors.” Has anyone else noticed this? Why do think this has occurred? (Note, I’ve said some not all, I don’t stereotype. I also didn’t say they have to like both their backgrounds only to accept they are from both.)
2006-07-19
08:50:15
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3 answers
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asked by
pinacoladasundae
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Other - Cultures & Groups