Mexican+Historical+and+Political+Traditions

** Authoritarianism (DEM) ** Authoritarianism prevails in Mexico as a result of Spain's colonial structure, and from military-political leaders. Power is solely in the hands of a small elite, and the president holds the majority of poltical power. There is tension between a shift toward a more democratic government and a renewed authoritarian government.  Authoritarian Durability and Democratic Transition in Mexico

** Populism (DEM) **  Populism exists in Mexico because of the democratic revolutions of 1810 and 1910, which demanded more rights for Mexicans (especially Amerindians). The Zapatista Army of National Liberation is made up of mostly Chiapas of the poorest areas of Mexico. They want anarchy and libertarian socialism, and have been at war with Mexico since 1994.  Populism and Neo-Populism in Latin America, Especially Mexico

**The Elite (DEM)**  The elite have significant power in Mexican politicsm, divisions among which in history include dissenters of the Revolutions of 1810 and 1910, warlords/caudillos of the early 1900s, and //politicos vs. tecnicos// of the late 1900s. There is a Mexican economic elite, and there is a political elite that protects them. The wealthy Mexican elite enjoy spoils and benefits, and have to be cautious of being killed. Most hire bodyguards.  Mexico's Corrupt Elite Pays Itself Well

media type="youtube" key="AkVV3Ode3Ok" height="344" width="425"  [|Mexican Instability]  **Religion (DEM)**  Until recently the Catholic Church were a part of Mexican politics. After the revolution, church influence in politics has greatly declined in the 1900s. But most Mexicans are Catholic and therefore religious beliefs still influence policy.  [|Mexican Religious Freedom Report]
 * Instability and Legitimacy Issues (DEM)** <span style="display: block; font-family: Georgia,serif; text-align: left;">In Mexico, although the government has legitimacy, political disagreements often lead to violence. In 1994, José Francisco Ruiz Massieu, secretary-general of the PRI party and major political candidate, was assassinated. Spain established a unstable government in Mexico in the early 1800s, allowing military leaders to take control.

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<span style="display: block; font-family: Georgia,serif; text-align: left;">Youtube videos that do not show up at school, courtesy of Xu.