Why can’t some people of mixed background accept all of their backgrounds? (Not like just accept.)?

Question

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.)

Answer 1

In the US, latinos of mixed decent appear as a visible minority. It is in their interest to proclaim their noble native heritage, as it gives them a position of power from within their minority status (claims to a heritage and culture, and a history of violence against them).

In Mexico, this is not the case, because they are the majority. However, this majority is not the holder of power. The more European you are, the more likely you are to be at the higher end of the social scale. One's indigenous culture is only valuable in a museum-like context, and offers no political power, so it is denied.

Answer 2

Things are quite different outside of America, aren't they? Actually it used to be this way in America too. When my ancestors immigrated to America from Scandinavia and Germany, they anglicized their names, so they would appear to be from Britain. They felt it would be easier to find work this way in the late nineteenth century.

It's going to take popular, rich, and beautiful Mestizos to "come out" and be proud of their heritage in front of the rest of Mexico. Others who aspire to be like them will then begin to appreciate the Native American influence more.

Oh, thanks for the little history lesson too.

Answer 3

that's so true. I know plenty of chicanos who completely deny being of Native American ancestry. I don't know why though.