The geographical position of Mexico can be safely called advantageous. The fact is that this country occupies almost a third of the territory of North America. It borders on the north, East End Mexico is washed by and western - the Pacific Ocean. A huge number of islands of different sizes, which are located near the coast of the country in pacific ocean and the Caribbean Sea are also part of Mexico. Despite the fact that most of The territory of the country is occupied by mountains and plateaus, local residents have learned to use them to their advantage.
It is hardly possible to briefly describe Mexico, since it is considered a developed state that plays an important role in Latin America. Naturally, this was not always the case. In the old days, Mexico was considered a "third world" country, that is, it belonged to developing states. But today the situation has changed dramatically, because there is already absolutely everything for comfortable life and technology is advancing at a rapid pace.
Administrative unit
To make it convenient to manage the economic development of the country, administratively it was divided into 31 states and one federal district. Each state has its own governor and its own laws. Separately, it is worth dwelling on the federal district, as it is organized a little differently than the states.
In the central part of Mexico is its capital - Mexico City. It is also the only district in the country, that is, a special political entity that includes the central part of the metropolitan metropolis. Its inhabitants themselves elect representatives of the executive and legislative branches. But what is interesting is that the head of the district is endowed with less authority than the governors of the states.
Climatic conditions and economic development
The physical and geographical position of Mexico contributes to the development of many industries. First of all, it is worth carefully studying the climate. The country is dominated by four climatic zones. The Mexicans themselves define them as follows:
- Sultry. It includes all areas of the country located along the coast and directly at the foot of the mountains. It is always hot here, regardless of the season, so these areas are actively used by local residents for the development of resorts. There is also a lot of precipitation during the autumn period, so there is also enough moisture for tropical forests.
- The warm belt is located at an altitude of 1500 m above sea level. Grows here great amount rare trees that are actively used in the woodworking industry.
- This is followed by the cool belt, which is located at an altitude of more than 1600 m and occupies the largest expanse of the country. Oak and pine forests grow here, and where precipitation is rare, desert plateaus form.
- The last belt is considered frosty. It includes the mountains themselves, so it is located at an altitude of 2700 m. Here suitable conditions for agriculture, because it is the population of the country that lives in the territory of this belt that is engaged in it.
The favorable location makes Mexico an excellent place for a resort holiday, which brings additional and quite significant income to the state treasury. All beaches are located either on the Pacific or Atlantic coast. As for the holiday seasons, here they last all year round, as the air temperature on the coast does not fall below 20 degrees.
In Mexico, any traveler can find something to their liking. For example, you can go scuba diving, explore caves and admire the national parks, of which there are many. All this and much more attracts tourists to the country all year round.
Natural resources and their use
If we describe the geographical position of Mexico briefly, then we can safely say that it is more than favorable. Its territory is rich in various minerals. Mexico is rightfully considered one of the leaders among Latin American countries in terms of ore mining. And this is true, because an ore belt passes through its territory. There is a constant development of deposits of copper and iron ore, and there are also small deposits of uranium.
The peculiarities of the geographical position of Mexico make it possible to mine and export silver, zinc, magnesium, cadmium, etc. to other countries. The southern part of the country is considered to be the richest region, since there is oil and gas on the shelves of the Gulf of Mexico. There are many mineral reserves in Mexico, so their extraction will be carried out for more than one hundred years.
Of course, not everything is as smooth as it seems at first glance. There are many rivers in Mexico, but almost all of them are located near the coast, so in the center of the country the population experiences a large shortage of water, which naturally affects the development of agriculture. However, the local population has long learned to cope with this problem.
General overview of the country's economy
Mexico occupies one of the first places in economic development among countries Latin America. Naturally, the favorable geographical position of Mexico plays an important role in this, because it borders on the United States, which invest a lot of money in its industry. The country is considered the largest exporter of silver, because the so-called silver belt passes through its territory.
To date, deposits of gold, zinc, lead and mercury are also being developed, so Mexico has a huge number of metal processing enterprises. One of the largest oil refineries is located in the country, and a system of pipelines passes through the entire territory, through which black gold and gas are supplied to the United States. Naturally, if there is oil, then there are oil refineries, which provides local residents with permanent jobs, and the government has fewer problems with the employment of citizens.
The economic and geographical position of Mexico gives it the opportunity to play a leading role in the industry of Latin America. Developed infrastructure and big market work force determine the presence on the territory of the country of a huge number of different factories, for example, those producing agricultural machinery, electrical goods. There are also metallurgical enterprises and car assembly plants.
Main industrial and agricultural areas
The entire territory of the country can be divided into three industrial regions:
Northern Mexico is famous for its developed animal husbandry. Here, cattle are often fattened, in order to then be driven to the United States.
country industry
The favorable economic and geographical position of Mexico allows it to actively develop and constantly achieve high rates. There is an automotive industry operating in accordance with world standards. The factories assemble cars, buses and trucks. In addition, many well-known car companies order unique parts that are produced only here.
Mexico has the largest cement plant in the world. There are also many enterprises that produce alcoholic and non-alcoholic alcoholic drinks, for example, beer and the well-known Coca-Cola. The Mexicans achieved great success in Food Industry. The country already has trademarks that have gained recognition in the world.
Constantly developing in the production of spare parts for aircraft, which are acquired by many well-known airlines.
Features of agriculture
Half of the population is involved in agriculture, which is facilitated by the geographical position of Mexico, because there are many fertile soils. The Mexicans even developed their own tillage system. Where the climate permits, they grow wheat, barley and even rice. Fruits and vegetables are exported. Tomatoes, oranges and coffee are in the highest demand, as well as some exotic fruits.
Thanks to access to the sea and ocean, fishing for commercial purposes is developing. To date, the products are also exported to other countries, only half of them are consumed by the Mexicans themselves.
Forestry development
The economic and geographical position of Mexico makes it possible to supply timber to neighboring states. Previously, it was mainly used for fuel, but today the situation has changed somewhat. In addition to pine, a huge number of trees of other valuable species grow in the country, such as oak and red cedar. Mexico is famous for the fact that there is bitumen and charcoal.
Transport
The geographical position of the country of Mexico initially did not have a very favorable effect on the creation transport connection, and all due to the fact that its territory has certain features of the relief. But with the advent of new technologies in the transport sector, this problem has been solved.
First of all, highways connected the most significant in economic terms regions of the country. In addition, roads were laid to the border with the United States. Of course, today the main transport hub of the country is Mexico City. It connects all districts with the capital of the state.
For a closer development of economic ties, it was necessary to lay 26,623 km of railway. And this task was successfully solved, despite the fact that the geographical position of Mexico complicated it.
Today, the capital of the country, Mexico City, even has its own subway, and the public transport system is at a high level compared to other countries, including even Canada. If you add up the length of all roads, they will result in big number, which will be approximately 247,450 km.
The geographical position of Mexico and Canada allows their residents to travel to neighboring countries not only by bus or car. You can also take a plane or train. There are two major airlines in Mexico that provide flights not only to the US but also to Europe. You can also travel to another country using sea transport departing from Mexican ports.
Comparative characteristics
The economic and geographical position of Mexico and Canada differs from each other. Below are not only the main differences, but also the similarities between these two countries:
AT recent times there is a marked rivalry between the two states. Since Mexico and Canada border the United States, both countries are trying to take the most advantageous positions in trade with a promising neighbor.
To become an economically developed country, Mexico had to work hard. Today, the population of the country has the opportunity to find their own business in various industries: industrial production, agriculture, construction, services and tourism.
Mexico's ultimate goal is to become a country where there is no clear cut line between rich and poor. Thanks to the resources that are available on the territory of the country and their proper use, we can say that the Mexicans are close to realizing their goal.
Many experts say that soon the level of development of the country will reach unprecedented heights, since the deposits of minerals on its territory are really huge. The Mexicans themselves know how to use them correctly to their advantage. In addition, agriculture has been actively developing in recent years.
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Mexico is one of the largest Latin American states. In terms of area (about 2 million square kilometers), it ranks third among Latin American countries, second only to Brazil and Argentina, and in terms of population (107 million people according to the 2007 census) it is second after Brazil.
Mexico occupies the southern part of the North American continent. In the north it borders on the United States, in the southeast on the Republic of Guatemala and Belize, on the south and west it is washed by the Pacific Ocean, on the east by the Atlantic Ocean (Gulf of Mexico and by the caribbean). The closest maritime neighbor of Mexico is the Republic of Cuba, located on the island of the same name and separated from the mainland by the shallow Yucatan Strait.
The greatest length of Mexico from northwest to southeast, from California to Guatemala, is 3,200 km. The extreme geographical points of the country: 32 ° 42 "and 14 ° 30" N. sh. and 86°46" and 117°7"W. e. The Tropic of the North divides Mexico into two almost equal parts.
In terms of territory (1,969,367 sq. km), Mexico is almost equal to France, Spain, Germany, Italy and England combined.
In the Pacific Ocean, Mexico owns the islands of Revilla-Hihedo, Guadalupe, Cedros, in the Gulf of California - the islands of Tiburon and Angel, in the Caribbean - the islands of Cozumel, Mujeres, etc.
Mexico is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world. At the same time, the influence of the Indian past is felt here at every step. It is manifested in the modern ethnic composition of the population, its labor skills, way of life, art, geographical names. Even the name of the country comes from the name of the supreme god of the Aztecs - Mexitli. It is typical for Mexico to emphasize original Indian elements in any area of the country's public life. Mexican patriotism is largely nurtured on this.
Administratively, Mexico is divided into 31 states and a federal capital district. In accordance with the current constitution of 1917, the head of state is the president, who is directly elected for 6 years without the right to ever again hold this post. Legislative power is exercised by the National Congress, which consists of the Senate, elected for a term of 6 years, and the Chamber of Deputies, elected for a term of 3 years. The capital of the country is the city of Mexico City.
The nature of Mexico is unusually diverse. It combines vast high plateaus with thickets of cacti and swampy lowlands covered with tropical rain forests, snow-covered cones of grandiose volcanoes and deep depressions with dry woodlands, steep slopes of ridges overgrown with oak and pine forests, and sultry desert coasts. To a large extent, these contrasts are determined complex structure relief. About 2/3 of the country's territory is occupied by the Mexican Highlands with an internal plateau, divided into two parts: the Northern and Central Mesa (in Spanish "mesa" - table). Northern Mesa is a semi-desert plateau composed of sedimentary rocks with separate mountain ranges and basins - bolsons. Its average height increases from 660 m in the north to 2000 m in the south, where it merges with the Central Mesa. Central Mesa rises further south to 2600 m and is covered mainly by volcanic products. It also has many intermountain basins - mostly basins of ancient dry lakes. The Mexican highlands are open to the north, and from the east, west, and south are bounded by mountain systems that drop steeply to the adjacent plains.
The Mexican Highlands is a plain dissected by mountain ranges, composed mainly of granites and gneisses (in the west) and limestones, shales and sandstones (in the east), overlapped in a number of places by volcanic lava flowing through cracks. The soils of the highlands are poor: chestnut and gray soils are widespread in the north, and only in the extreme south there are chernozems. The appearance of the highlands is unsightly. A desert plain scorched by the sun stretches for many hundreds of kilometers. Countless cacti, like huge candelabra, give the area a whimsical look. The houses here have neither gardens nor kitchen gardens, the yards are surrounded by cactus fences. Mountain ranges stretch along the western and eastern edges of the highlands - the Western Sierra Madre and the Eastern Sierra Madre.
Kharkiv secondary school of I-III degrees No. 164
Kharkiv city council of Kharkiv region
Course work
"Mexico"
Completed by: student of grade 10-B
Oatmeal Vitaly
Kharkiv - 2009
1. Introduction………………………………………………..3
1.1. Geographical location…………………..3
1.2. Historical statements (briefly)…………...3
2. Natural conditions and resources………………………..4
2.1. Main natural resources………………4
2.2. Climate…………………………………………4
2.3. Relief……………………………………………5
2.4. Natural vegetation………………..7
3. Population……………………………………………….8
3.1. Demographics……………………………………8
3.2. Ethnic origin and language………….9
3.3. Population accommodation………………………..9
3.4. Religion………………………………………..10
4. Characteristics of the economy…………………………….11
4.1. Industry……………………………….11
4.2. Agriculture……………………………..12
5. Transport………………………………………………….13
5.1. Transport network……………………………………14
6. External economic relations………………………...15
7. Conclusions ............................................... ...............................eighteen
8. Additions……………………………………………...20
List of used literature……………………..24
1. Introduction
Mexico- a state in the south of North America. The capital is Mexico City. Major cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, Ciudad Juarez, Leon, Tijuana. The total area of Mexico is 1,972,550 km², including about 6,000 km² of islands in the Pacific Ocean (including the island of Guadalupe and the Revilla Gigedo archipelago), the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of California. In terms of area, Mexico ranks 14th in the world.
1.1. Geographical position
Being located in North America (at about 23° north latitude and 102° east longitude), Mexico makes up the majority of Central America. In terms of physical geography, the area east of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, including the Yucatan Peninsula (which makes up about 12% of the country's territory) is located in Central America; in terms of geology, the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt separates the northern region of the country. Geopolitically, however, Mexico is considered a North American country. In the north, Mexico borders on the United States (the length of the border is 3141 km). East of the city of Ciudad Juarez to the Gulf of Mexico, the border runs along the meandering Rio Grande. Several natural and man-made markers define the border with the United States west of Ciudad Juarez to the Pacific Ocean. In the south, Mexico borders Guatemala (871 km) and Belize (251 km). The most important feature of the economic and geographical position is the direct proximity to the United States, which captured in 1846-1848. over half of Mexico. This has a great impact on the life of the country. Its economy is closely and in many ways connected with the US economy and strongly depends on its conjuncture. The main land roads lead to the border with the United States, through which 2/3 of the volume of foreign trade passes.
Mexico is the only developing country, leaving a wide front to two oceans. The interoceanic position contributes to the expansion of the volume and geography of foreign economic relations, including with other Latin American countries. Ties with Japan reinforce the significance of Mexico's Pacific position. Neighborhood with Central America favors the strengthening of the position of Mexican capital in this subregion.
1.2. Brief historical records
Before the discovery of America by Europeans, the Mayan and Aztec states existed in Mexico.
· 1518 - the first landing of the Spaniards in Mexico (expedition of the conquistador Juan Grijalva).
· 1519 - The Spanish detachment of the conquistador Cortes lands in Mexico, lays the city of Veracruz and without a fight enters the capital of the Aztec empire, the city of Tenochtitlan (Mexico City), where he captures the leader Montezuma.
· 1520 - the anti-Spanish uprising of the Aztecs.
· 1521 - Cortes, at the head of the 10,000th anti-Aztec militia of the Indians, conquers the state of the Aztecs.
· 1522 - Cortes becomes the first governor and captain-general of New Spain.
· 1524 - Guatemala and Honduras are annexed to New Spain.
· 1535 - The Viceroyalty of New Spain is founded with its center in Mexico City. Antonio de Mendoza became the first Viceroy of New Spain. The Viceroyalty is divided into provinces headed by governors. The territories of the provinces were divided among the Spanish latifundist landlords, to whom the surrounding Indians were attached. To curb the arbitrariness of governors on the ground, audiences were created - colleges of judges, headed by presidents.
· 1810-1824 - the war for the independence of Mexico from Spain.
· 1821 - declaration of independence.
· 1824 - the first constitution of an independent Mexico.
· 1845 - secession of Texas.
· 1846-1848 - the American-Mexican war, which ended with the rejection of half of the territory from Mexico, which is now part of the United States.
· 1862-1867 - French invasion, in honor of one of the victories in which the Mexicans established a national holiday.
· 1910-1920 - Mexican Revolution.
1994 - Zapatista uprising.
· 2006 - Revolution of cacti.
2. Natural conditions and resources
2.1. Main natural resources: oil, silver, copper, gold, zinc, lead, timber, natural gas.
2.2. Climate. Almost half of the entire territory of Mexico has an arid or semi-arid climate. Dry conditions are characteristic of the entire northern zone along the border with the United States, from the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, and extend in the central part of the highlands south to about 22°N. Further south, rainfall gradually increases, reaching 580 mm per year in Mexico City and 890 mm per year in the Puebla Depression. Only the Gulf Coast states of Veracruz and Tabasco and the Pacific coast of Chiapas receive sufficient rainfall throughout the year. Most of the precipitation falls in summer, and winters are relatively dry. Temperatures and vegetation depend on altitude. In Mexico, the hot belt - the so-called. tierra caliente - located from sea level to about 600 m or slightly higher; temperate belt - tierra templada - extends above it, up to a height of approx. 1850 m, and even higher, up to the very snowy border (3950–4550 m) are the so-called. "cold lands" (tierra fr
a). Most of the central highlands are located at an altitude of 1200 to 2400 m above sea level, which corresponds to the upper part of the temperate zone and the lower part of the cold one. Although seasonal temperature amplitudes are small and, with the exception of the far north, average approx. 8°C, daily fluctuations are significant, and nights are usually cold in the mountainous region. On the coastal lowlands, summer temperatures exceed 27 ° C. Especially long and hot summers are characteristic of the lowlands adjacent to the Gulf of California.2.3. Relief. Most of Mexico is occupied by the Mexican Highlands, passing in the north into the high plains and plateaus of Texas and New Mexico; from the east, west and south it is surrounded by deeply dissected mountain ranges. The central part of this upland consists of vast depressions - bolsons - with gentle slopes; the block ridges separating them are often crowned with volcanoes. The surface of the plateau gradually rises to the south and forms a wedge at approximately 19–20°S. in the volcanic zone, where the Transverse Volcanic Sierra ridge stretches in the latitudinal direction. The northern part of the plateau, Northern Mesa, is formed by merged bolsons, depressions with salt marshes or salt lakes in the center; the largest of them are Bolson de Mapimi, the bottom of which is at an altitude of 900 m above sea level, and Bolson de Mairan (1100 m). Above the general level of the plateau, blocky mountains rise sharply to a height of up to 900 m. Most of this desert region is drainless; only in the north flows the largest river in Mexico, the Rio Bravo del Norte (in the United States called the Rio Grande) and its only tributary, the Conchos. Further south, the surface of the highlands rises; Numerous intermountain depressions are located here at elevations of 1800–2400 m above sea level. and are separated by raised arid plateaus, above which block ridges rise several hundred meters. In the extreme south of the highlands is the so-called Central Region, which is the center of the political and economic life of the country, where the capital is located and most of the population is concentrated. The relief of this region clearly shows depressions, the bottoms of which are at the level of 1500–2600 m; all of them, with the exception of the valley of Mexico City, where the capital is located, are drained by rivers belonging to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The basins are separated by hilly ridges of soft contours, cut through by deep and narrow river valleys. Above the surface of the plateau, the Transverse Volcanic Sierra, which limits it from the south, rises sharply, formed by almost merged cones of volcanoes. Here are the highest peaks: Orizaba (Sitlaltepetl), 5610 m; Popocatepetl, 5452 m; Istaxihuatl, 5286 m; Nevado de Toluca, 4392 m; Malinche, 4461 m, and Nevado de Colima, 4265 m. In the Valley of Mexico, 80 km long and approx. 50 km once there were five shallow lakes with marshy shores; the largest of them was Lake Texcoco, in the center of which, on the island, was the capital of the Aztecs - Tenochtitlan. Over time, the lake was drained and in its place is the modern capital, the city of Mexico City. The largest river of the Central region - r. Lerma - flows through the depressions of Toluca, Guanajuato and Jalisco and flows into Lake Chapala, which has a drain into the Pacific Ocean through the river. Rio Grande de Santiago. Other depressions - Aguascalientes and Puebla - are also drained by the rivers of the Pacific Ocean basin.
The western border of the highlands is formed by the Western Sierra Madre mountain system, reaching 160 km in width and in some places rising above 3000 m. This is one of the most powerful and insurmountable mountain barriers in the Western Hemisphere. The railroad linking Central Mesa with the Pacific coast, like the highway, goes around these mountains from the south and rises to the city of Guadalajara. Only in 1961 was a railway line built from Chihuahua to the coast - the first railway laid through the mountains of the Western Sierra Madre; completed in the same year highway paved, connecting Durango and the port of Mazatlán. The mountain system to the east of the highlands, the Sierra Madre Oriental, is relatively easier to pass. The most convenient routes through it pass through Monterrey in the north and through Veracruz in the southeast. The Pan-American Highway, starting from the city of Nuevo Laredo on the border of the United States and Mexico, follows the eastern foot of the mountains to approximately the latitude of the city of Tampico and then rises sharply into the mountains and crosses the central mountain range. In the south, the zone of deeply dissected mountain relief is much wider than in the west and east of the uplands. The Transverse Volcanic Sierra breaks off in a steep ledge to the tectonic basin of the river. Balsas, deeply protruding into the mountainous region; even at a great distance from the ocean, on the meridian of Mexico City, the bottom of the valley has a height of only approx. 500 m above sea level South of the Balsas Valley is the region of the dissected plateaus of Guerrero and Oaxaca, collectively known as the Southern Sierra Madre; the erosive activity of watercourses has created here a complex network of deep valleys and steep ridges, leaving almost no flat areas. This southern mountainous region, which is generally considered to form the southern end of the geological structures of North America, ends in steep ledges facing the Pacific Ocean and the low isthmus of Tehuantepec.
The advantages of modern Mexico are not only in the fact that there are magnificent beaches, untouched corners of virgin nature and the mysterious ruins of colonial palaces.
Geographic location of Mexico
State with a total area of 1.95 million square meters. km., is located in North America, occupying almost the entire of its central part. It borders the United States to the north and east and Belize and Guatemala to the southeast. In the east it is washed by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, in the west by the Pacific Ocean (here the Gulf of California juts out far into the coast). Mexico owns a number of islands in the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean.Most of the country is mountainous and occupied by the Mexican Highlands, the Sierra Madre and the Transverse Volcanic Sierra with many active volcanoes(about 350), including the highest point of the country - Orizaba (5700 m.), Popokatepetl - (5452 m.), etc. Volcanic activity is quite high, earthquakes are also frequent.
Capital
Mexico City (Mexico City).Climate in Mexico
Subtropical in the north, tropical in the south. In the Mexican Highlands it is usually much cooler (from +2 C in winter to +15 C in summer) than on the coast, where the air temperature does not drop below +20 C even in winter. In the northern part of the country and in mountainous areas, light snow falls in winter. In resort coastal areas (Acapulco, Cancun) the temperature ranges from +22 C in winter to +35 C in summer. Due to the features of the relief, altitudinal zoning is clearly expressed.Usually, dry (November-April) and wet (June-September) seasons are distinguished, which differ slightly in temperature, but due to the influence of tropical cyclones, they differ greatly in precipitation, and especially in air humidity. Total precipitation falls from 100 to 3000 mm. in year. The Gulf Coast receives much more rain than the country's Pacific coasts, so most resorts require some acclimatization due to the high humidity. Powerful tropical cyclones are frequent.
Population
About 100.3 million people. Modern ethnic composition formed of three components: the indigenous population - Indian tribes and nationalities (28% of the total), European settlers (primarily from Spain) and Africans. Currently, 60% of the population consider themselves "Mexicans" ("Mexicanos", descendants of mixed marriages) and 30% - Indians.Political state
Federal Republic. The head of state is the president, who is elected for six years. The legislature is the bicameral National Congress (the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies). Administrative divisions: 31 states and 1 metropolitan federal district.Language in Mexico
The official language is Spanish, English, French and German are widely spoken in the resort areas, they are practically not used in the provinces. In addition, local ethnic groups speak their native languages (Nahuatl, Maya, Otomi, Zapotec, Mixteca, Totonac, Tarascos, Purepecha, and others - about 59 local dialects in total).Religion in Mexico
The dominant religion is Christianity (97% of the population consider themselves Catholics).Mexican Cuisine
The cuisine of Mexico is extremely original and peculiar, which is explained by the mixing culinary traditions Indian tribes of Mesoamerica with a strong influence of Spanish and French recipes. At the same time, the majority traditional ingredients local cuisines originally appeared in these places, and only then they were spread around the world, gaining popularity in other parts of the world. Mexican cuisine is based on a huge selection of local products: corn (maize), avocados, beans, zucchini, sweet and regular potatoes, tomatoes, cacti, chili peppers, pumpkin, poultry, vanillin, peanuts (and its oil), cocoa, and also many types of fish, fruits, herbs and spices.The main place in Mexican folk cuisine is corn - fried and boiled, in the form of flour and as a drink, with mayonnaise or grated cheese, with meat and ground pepper ... The most common corn dishes are corn tortilla baked on coals with taco filling , meat in salted cornmeal (as well as the corn drink of the same name), a mixture of toasted cornmeal with cocoa pinole, cornmeal tortilla, steamed tamales - pieces of corn dough with sauce, antojito and repostaria, tortillas with various fillings - nachos, quesadillas, tostados "," chimichangi "and others.
Hot chili peppers are the hallmark of Mexican cuisine; there are more than 80 types of it here. Hundreds of varieties of various sauces are made from it, stuffed, added to various vegetable salads, meat dishes, to fish, and, of course, to corn.
Meat dishes are also extremely varied. The Indians, who did not know cattle and chickens before the arrival of Europeans, created many original recipes from local game (boiled snake, iguana with corn porridge, baked snake, etc.), but also quickly launched new products. And now "true Mexican" are considered a variety of goulash "olla podrida", boiled pork with vegetables "chipile", fried beef ribbons with bean garnish "carne asados", minced meat with picadillo tomatoes, hot stuffed empanadas, dozens of roasted or stewed turkeys such as monte lablano, peculiar enchiladas stuffed with peppers, cheese, eggs or meat, Mexican-style lamb roasted on a skewer slices of pork "tacos al pastor", beef with beans, eggs ("vallejo", "rancho" or with potatoes and ham), as well as "carnitas", chicken "mexicali" and many other equally original dishes.
The range of vegetables used is also extremely diverse. In the first place, of course, beans - fresh and dried, fried and in fresh, as a filler for cakes, soups and as a side dish - you can list all the dishes from them endlessly. Dozens of dishes are also prepared from the "nopal" cactus (leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds are used), agaves, beans, avocado-guacamole (used both in appetizers and main courses), mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, etc. Particularly popular uses a kind of local fruit "chayote", consumed in baked, stewed and boiled form, as part of casseroles, salads, side dishes, etc.
Fish recipes are also based on national traditions - the same abundance of corn and spices as in other Mexican dishes, and the same amount of sauces and seasonings. Interesting cod "yucatan", "lutianus", "veracruz", tortillas with fish, swordfish with lemon or garlic sauce, soup with seafood "sopa de marisco", lobsters with avocados, etc.
Desserts are most often delicious local fruits, the original canas asadas roasted sugarcane dessert, excellent French-style pastries, rosca de reyes sweet bread, scones and muffins, as well as excellent sweet vegetable dishes are extremely popular. and fruits - cherry chimichangas, corn soufflé, mango with cream, quesadillas, pumpkin in syrup, shady lady, various stuffed puddings and nuts.
Of the alcoholic beverages, tequila (made by double distillation of blue agave core juice), which has more than 300 types (four types are officially approved - Blanco, Joven, Reposado and Anejo), as well as traditional alcoholic drinks "pulque", " mezcal" (produced by a simple distillation of five various kinds agave), sotola and bacanora. Mexican wines are also good (mostly created using European technologies), Don Pedro brandy and Corona beer.
Festivals and holidays in Mexico
During the winter months, a two-week Jazz Festival is held throughout the country. The traditional Carnival takes place at the end of February or at the beginning of March in the week before the Day of Repentance. The traditional spring festival, accompanied by costumed processions and climbing the pyramids, takes place in Teotihuacan on the day of the spring equinox. On the same days (and also on September 21) in Chichen Itza, the festival of Quetzalcoatl (Quetzalcoatl or the Feathered Serpent) takes place. On Independence Day in the central squares of all settlements colorful folk festivals are held.Immediately after All Saints' Day (November 2) is the eerie "Dia de los Muertos" - a holiday to honor the dead. On the day of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe (December 12), the colorful Señora de Guadalupe Festival and a pilgrimage to the capital of the country, to the Basilica of the Virgin Mary (one of the centers of Catholicism in America) take place.
Shopping in Mexico
Shops are usually open from 9.00-10.00 to 19.00-22.00 with a traditional siesta break from 14.00. until 16.00, day off - Sunday.money in mexico
New peso (international designation - MXP), equal to 100 centavos (cents). In 1993, the denomination of banknotes was carried out - 1000 "old" pesos corresponds to 1 "new" peso. In circulation there are banknotes of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 pesos and coins of 50, 20, 10 and 5 centavos. The new money differs from the old ones in size and appearance. Prices in new pesos are marked with NP$. The "$" sign is used for both the peso and the US dollar (US$ or USD only).Banks and currency exchange
Banks are open from 9.00 to 17.00 on weekdays (some bank branches are open even until 24.00 or 01.00), and from 9.00 to 14.00 on Saturday. Sunday is a day off. Some bank branches in resort areas are also open from 16.00 to 18.00, on Saturday - from 10.00 to 13.30 and from 16.00 to 18.00, and also on Sunday - from 10.00 to 13.30.Currency exchange can be done at banks, large hotels, airports (usually the best rate) or specialized exchange offices "casas de cambio". Often there are difficulties with the exchange of shabby banknotes or banknotes of the old series. Most hotels, restaurants, shops and travel agencies accept world leading credit cards and travelers checks (preferably in US dollars). The resort areas have a well-developed network of ATMs.
US dollars are also accepted almost everywhere (the exchange rate is not the most profitable). When exchanging, care should be taken - there are attempts to shortchange.
VAT and tax-free
VAT (IVA) is 15% and is usually included in all prices and bills, but in some expensive hotels the prices do not include tax. VAT is also charged on telephone conversations, from rent for housing, etc.On November 15, 2008, Mexico began implementing a VAT refund program using the Tax Back service. When paying in cash, tourists are eligible for a VAT refund if the value of purchases was at least 1200 (including tax), and not more than 3000 pesos. If the payment was made using a bank card, then there are no restrictions on the amount.
To receive a VAT refund at the Tax Back office, you must present your passport, a copy of the immigration form, which is filled out when crossing the Mexican border, checks from stores, a special Tax Back form and a boarding pass. If the value of purchases exceeds 5,000 pesos, Tax Back employees have the right to ask for the goods purchased.
It is worth noting that only half of the tax refund amount can be received in cash. The rest will be transferred to the account or bank card of the tourist. If the total amount of VAT exceeds 10,000 pesos, all compensation will be transferred to the buyer in a non-cash form within 40 days after the presentation of the Tax Back form and departure from the country.
Tips
Tips are usually 10% of the billed price. It is customary to tip in a restaurant (up to 15%), a porter ($1-2), driver and guide for the tour.Security
In Mexico, there is a high level of crime, in the first place - pickpocketing and robbery. It is recommended to travel by car, bus and train only during the day.Taxis are recommended only from official stations ("sitios"), otherwise the chance of becoming a victim of a robbery is quite high. It is recommended to order a taxi by phone, be sure to get the car number and taxi driver's license number from the dispatcher. At Mexico City Airport, only yellow airport taxis (with airport symbols on the door) should be hired, after paying for the call at the appropriate "Transportacion Terrestre" kiosk in the airport lobby.
Try to drive on toll roads ("cuota") - they are safer. It is also recommended to avoid solo trips in provincial areas, and often use hitchhiking. There are known cases of extortion of money by people in uniform. Armed insurgent detachments operate in some areas of the country; if you need to travel to such areas, you should follow the recommendations of local authorities.
Geographical position
The United Mexican States is one of the largest states in Latin America. Its territory is equal to 1958.2 thousand square kilometers. In terms of territory, among the countries of the Western Hemisphere, Mexico ranks fifth. In the north, it borders on the United States of America, in the south - on Guatemala and Belize.
Mexico is a mountainous country, more than 50% of its territory is located above 1000 meters above sea level. The only plain is the Yucatan Peninsula, narrow lowlands also stretch along the ocean coasts.
Water resources are distributed extremely unevenly, which, together with other factors
creates difficulties for agriculture
economy. Many areas of Mexico
need irrigation.
The country is rich in minerals:
oil, gas, mercury, silver, zinc, lead,
uranium and others. Explored oil reserves
are about 9.8 billion tons,
natural gas - 1826 billion cubic meters
meters. Mexico, the world's largest
silver producer, ranked seventh
place in the world for the extraction of zinc, sulfur and salt,
fourth - lead and mercury.
In terms of population, Mexico is the third country in the Western Hemisphere. In 1983 The country's population was over 70 million people. Official language- Spanish, but Indian languages are widely spoken in many remote areas. Mexico City, the capital of the country, is home to 12.7 million people. Together with nearby cities, Mexico City forms one of the largest urban conglomerations in the world, which is home to 20% of the country's population. It is the largest industrial center in Latin America, and it and other cities of the Mexico Valley account for about 60% of the country's industrial potential.
Mexico is a federal republic consisting of 31 states and the Federal District. Supreme power is exercised by the president, who is the head of government.
Legislative power is vested in the National Congress, which consists of the Chamber of Deputies, elected for a term of three years, and the Senate, which elects two senators from each state for a term of six years.
HISTORICAL OUTLINE
The Spanish conquerors who discovered the New World captured Mexico in 1519-1521. Mexico became a Spanish colony. A brutal colonial regime was established. Mexico has become the largest supplier of gold and silver to the mother country.
A powerful revolutionary upsurge in the country occurred at the beginning of the 19th century. But the proclamation of the republic and the adoption of the constitution in 1821. did not stop the internal political struggle between conservatives and liberals. This led to the instability of power. For seven years (1841 - 1848) more than 20 presidents were replaced. One coup d'état followed another.
The United States took advantage of the internal strife and instability in the country. In the mid-1930s, the United States began its expansion to the south. And as a result, the US seized 2.2 million square kilometers of Mexico. It contains the current North American states of Texas, California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
By the beginning of the bourgeois-democratic revolution in Mexico (1910 - 1917), foreign capital controlled the main industries. American and British companies have taken leading positions in mining, oil and other industries. The oil fields of Mexico were exploited in the most predatory way. Mexico moved to one of the first places in oil production, which in 1911 amounted to. 12,552 thousand barrels.
In 1976 José López Portillo (1976-1982) assumed the presidency. The government's program was defined as follows: an appropriate distribution of wealth through the exercise of the right to work. But the reforms carried out by the government were not completed to the end.
The world economic crisis (1929-1933) sharply exacerbated class and social contradictions and strengthened anti-imperialist sentiments in the country. A characteristic feature of the transformations in the 1930s was the creation of the public sector of the economy, which was supposed to contribute to social changes and the country's independent development. The nationalization of oil and other measures aimed at independent development and the restriction of foreign capital caused discontent both at home and abroad. But under the influence of the events connected with the beginning of the Second World War, the predominant influence in the state was acquired by forces oriented towards closer ties with foreign and, above all, with American capital.
Pyramid of Teotihuacan
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ECONOMY AND FEATURES OF ITS DEVELOPMENT
And although Mexico's GDP has grown more than 1.5 times over the past ten years, it still lags far behind in per capita income from developed capitalist countries, and among Latin American countries it ranks third after Argentina and Venezuela.
Mexico is the most developed country in Latin America. In terms of GNP and industrial output, it ranks second in the region, second only to Brazil in these indicators. So the average annual GDP growth from 1965 to 1970. was equal to 6.9%; in 1970 - 1974 - 6.3%. During the global economic crisis of 1974 - 1975. this indicator decreased, and then in 1978 - 1980. rose to 8-9%.
Entering a new phase of its industrial development, Mexico used financial and material support from developed countries, primarily the United States. At the same time, specialization and cooperation were carried out on the basis of the gradual integration of the economic structures of Mexico with the economies of the developed capitalist countries. These factors left a deep imprint on the economic development of Mexico, giving it a contradictory character.
During the postwar years, the structure of the GNP underwent significant changes. The share of agriculture in it is constantly falling. So, in 1950. it was 23.8%, in 1970. - 11.9, and in 1978. - already 9.0%. The share of the manufacturing industry is gradually increasing. However, in terms of the level of manufacturing industry, Mexico still lags far behind the developed capitalist countries. In terms of general indicators of economic development, Mexico is approaching a country like Spain, yielding to it only in terms of per capita output.
Investments in the economy are provided mainly by increasing public investment. Public investment in the economy and social infrastructure grew at a fairly high rate during 1950-1970.
An important factor in the economic development of Mexico was the growth of labor productivity. While the employment of the population from 1960 to 1977. increased by 2.1 times, the value of GDP for the same period increased by 4.7 times.
Describing the industry as a whole, it should be noted that 80.7% of all manufacturing enterprises are small-scale industries owned by national or private capital and using national technology. They basically provide employment for the population. In 1960 the share of small and medium-sized enterprises in the manufacturing industry accounted for 71.5% of all manufactured products and 79.5% of all employed in the industry.
The state is pursuing a policy of stimulating medium and small industry, for which purpose the Guarantee Fund for Stimulating Medium and Small Industry has been established. Preferential tax policy is implemented in relation to these enterprises. In the country's industrial development plans, great attention is paid to small and medium-sized industry. According to 1970 data. There were 1,007 large enterprises with 477,000 employees, 2,122 medium enterprises with 365,000 employees, and 68,036 small enterprises with 628,000 employees.
In 1972 the assets of foreign affiliates accounted for 52% of the assets of the 300 largest enterprises in the manufacturing industry. However, the adoption in 1973 the law to stimulate domestic and regulate foreign investment prevented further capitalization of the Mexican economy. The policy of the state in regulating the activities of foreign capital allows local companies to compete not quite with TNCs, but only with its branches in the country. Although foreign affiliates have given away a controlling stake, their influence is felt everywhere, since 90% of large and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises use foreign technology, build their production on the basis of foreign equipment, brands and patents.
1976-1977 were difficult years for the Mexican economy. A revival began in the second half of 1978, private sector investment increased, and inflation rates decreased. In 1979 GDP growth was 8 % , employment increased by 7.6 % . But agriculture was in a difficult situation, the production of which decreased by 3.5%.
But in spite of "import substitution" and "Mexicanization" foreign investment and imports of goods continue to grow rapidly. Despite all efforts, the government failed to stop the growth of inflation. In 1976 Prices consumer goods increased in comparison with 1973 by more than 1.5 times. All this, combined with the global economic crisis, forced the government to abandon the stability of the Mexican peso.
Industry of Mexico in 1980 - 1981. developed at a high pace. Oil production, production in the branches of the petrochemical complex, the cement industry and mechanical engineering grew rapidly.
Mexico was the first in the capitalist world to nationalize the oil industry, expropriating in 1938. property of 17 foreign companies. It was handed over state organization"Petroles Mechanos" (Pemex). Pemex is the backbone of the public sector of the economy, and the oil and oil refining industry has become a major sector of the economy, the proceeds of which go to the development of other industries, infrastructure and agriculture.
On the this moment much attention is paid to the development of the private sector in the Mexican economy. According to the decree of August 15, 1983. on the development and activities of the maquiladoras sector, enterprises of this type can be created everywhere. The decree provides for the possibility of establishing such enterprises in the “export free zone” with 100% foreign ownership, which puts them in special conditions compared to most foreign companies operating in Mexico, whose ownership in equity capital is limited to 49%. If in 1966 in Mexico, there were 12 enterprises of this type, which employed about 3 thousand people, then by the end of 1987. - already 1100 with more than 300 thousand people employed.
FOREIGN TRADE AND FOREIGN ECONOMIC RELATIONS
Foreign trade in Mexico has always been of great importance. It is one of the main sources of foreign exchange, which is used to purchase equipment necessary for the development of industry, and raw materials.
A characteristic feature of foreign trade turnover for a long time was a chronic excess of imports over exports.
The structure of imports indicates that the country buys mainly machinery, raw materials for industry, in some years food and consumer goods. In addition to the United States, major importers of Mexican products are Spain, Japan, Germany, Brazil and others.
In 1980 exports increased to $15.3 billion, of which $10 billion is oil.
CONCLUSION
Now the “Mexican model” is in crisis, so
With petrodollars pouring into the country, the government hopes to make a quick leap in economic development, as well as cope with unemployment. Mexico's external debt is $80 billion. Only payments on state debt absorb 70% of the sale of oil. This led to multiple devaluations of the peso.
At the end of 1982 There was a change of government in Mexico.
The new president, Meguel de la Madrid, announced that he sees his main task in the strictest economy, the fight against inflation and unemployment.
As a result of the adopted austerity measures, as well as restrictions on imports in the first four months of 1983. Mexico had a trade surplus of over $4 billion. The influx of tourists into the country also contributed to the growth in income.
In June 1983 The government has promulgated the plan of national development of the country for 1983 - 1988. The main goal of this plan is to slow down inflation and provide employment. Moreover, financing will rely more on internal reserves, and not on external loans.
Now in power is President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, who continues to implement the reforms of Miguel da la Madrid.
How the country's economic success proved to be extremely controversial. In particular, the economic growth in Mexico was accompanied by increased penetration of foreign capital. Dominant positions (about 60%) belong to foreign capital USA, although last years the inflow of investments from Western Europe and Japan increased significantly. At the same time, Mexico is increasingly resorting to foreign loans and loans, although export earnings do not cover financial obligations.
