Mexico's History, Abridged

Today was a day of learning about the history of Mexico at the University of Texas. The unique perspectives, personalities, and enthusiasm of our four speakers made the information-filled day go quickly.  

What did I observe?

• A library collection of mid-16th century artifacts from Mexico: As a book-lover, I was drawn to the stained pages with images dyed from indigo, charcoal, and the red juice of bugs that tell the stories of the history of Mexico.   

How did I connect?

• During a lecture titled, "Pyramid Builders had to Eat Too" we learned about the difficulties of growing enough crops to feed a country where the growing conditions are often less than ideal.  I couldn't help but think of the lush corn and soybean-filled land that surrounded me as I grew up.  Our speaker encouraged us to remember all of the supporters (farmers) of the pyramid builders and how rural and urban life are connected as we visit pyramids later this month.   

Questions

• How will the historical places that I see tell the story of present-day Mexico?

An Olmec (ancient Mesoamerican culture) statue in front of the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies.