Historical context

 TEZCATLIPOCA HISTORICAL CONTEXT:  

Before we delve into Mexican history and the pivotal role of Tezcatlipoca throughout thousands of years within past and current civilizations, it's essential to acknowledge the broader historical and cultural currents that shaped the emergence of the Mexica, the revival of Mexico, and the veneration of this powerful deity. Tezcatlipoca's influence was vast and extends beyond the confines of a single culture, echoing through the Mesoamerican peoples cultures and civilizations through different eras and names. Like the Toltecs from 700CE had a legend of Tezcatlipoca dethroning their king and high priest of Quetzalcoatl. And the Olmecs in 1400 BCE seems to be were he began to crystalize as a deity this introduction sets the stage to explore Tezcatlipoca's place within the grand narrative of migration, cultural synthesis, and the universal motifs of creation and duality.

Tezcatlipoca can be discerned in the deities of earlier civilizations, such as the Olmecs, Toltecs, and the Maya, suggesting a shared cultural heritage that predates the formation of the Aztec Empire. Linguists have traced the Nahua language to be part of a much larger family of languages that encompasses most native tribes from north to south America. The fact these languages are connected, Tezcatlipoca's, and Quetzalcoatl's depictions across these cultures as well as the constant eagle and jaguar iconography underscores the interconnectedness of Mesoamerican language, religious practices, and the fluidity of divine archetypes in the region.

Central to understanding the Aztec world is the epic tale of the Mexica migration from their mythical northern homeland of Aztlan to the establishment of Tenochtitlan, the heart of their empire, in the Valley of Mexico. Commencing their journey south around 1111CE under Huitzilopochtli's guidance to find their new homeland they were commanded to stop when they saw the sign of an eagle devouring a snake atop a cactus, this odyssey spanned two hundred years until about 1325CE when they saw the eagle perched on a cactus eating a snake in the middle of a lake , they built Tenochitlan there in the middle of the lake because of Huitzilopochtli's sign, a testament to the strength, endurance,  faith, and destiny of the Mexica people. 

Lithic Period (Before 8000 BCE)  

In this period, there's no direct evidence of practices or beliefs specifically related to Tezcatlipoca or any god yet. However, spiritual or ritualistic practices existed, which later would've evolved into more complex religious systems.

Archaic Period (before 2000 BCE)
 

Agriculture advanced, permanent villages were established, and societal structures like class divisions began to appear.  Many of the basic technologies of Mesoamerica in terms of stonegrinding, drilling, pottery etc. were established during this period.  Again, while there's no direct evidence of the specific worship of Tezcatlipoca, there is evidence of practices that could've influenced Tezcatlipoca, the stage was being set for more organized religious practices. 

Preclassic or Formative Period (2000 BCE - 250 CE)

During this period, the growth in societal complexity, as evidenced by advancements in pottery and social structures, indicate a society ripe for spiritual exploration. While there's no direct evidence of Tezcatlipoca worship, these developments suggest an environment where complex deities would've been conceptualized and venerated.

This phase was marked by significant advancements that shaped the religious landscape of Mesoamerica. The expanding complexity of religious practices during this time indicates a setting where specialized gods like Tezcatlipoca could emerge.

As Mesoamerican societies continued to evolve, the Locona Phase set the stage for organized religious practices to take root. The complexity of these societies provided fertile ground for the  introduction and worship of specific deities, offering a  platform for the advent of Tezcatlipoca worship.

Tezcatlipoca began to crystallize as a deity during the Olmec period, which saw the formation of a pantheon of gods. Some Olmec artifacts suggest figures that could be early representations of Tezcatlipoca. 

Classic Period (250 CE - 900 CE)

Tezcatlipoca was a part of the religious practices in Teotihuacan, the Toltecs and possibly among the Maya, although under different names and attributes.  

The deity's influence continued to grow, especially as Teotihuacan's influence waned and new city-states rose to prominence.

Tezcatlipoca's worship was widespread by this point, especially in the Toltec culture that began to rise towards the end of this period.

Tezcatlipoca was a major deity in the Toltec religion, and his influence spread through their interactions with other Mesoamerican groups.

Tezcatlipoca reached the peak of his worship among the Aztecs, serving as a central figure in their religion and mythology.

The worship of Tezcatlipoca and other indigenous deities began to decline as Spanish conquerors imposed their will, along with, disease, Christianity, and Catholicism.

By this point, indigenous religion and culture were heavily suppressed and demonized by Christians and Catholics with about 90% of the Native population dying to disease brought by the colonizers, but Tezcatlipoca's worship persisted as there are documents after this that had Tezcatlipoca in them coming from Native people that survived to Spanish scribes to translate and publish.

Early Suppression and Forced Conversion (1521 CE - 1550 CE): Following the fall of the Aztec Empire, Spanish conquerors and missionaries systematically dismantled indigenous religious structures, viewing them as pagan or barbaric. Temples were destroyed, and religious idols such as Tezcatlipoca were targeted for eradication. The Spanish imposed Christianity, often by force, significantly impacting the practice of indigenous religions. Despite these efforts, many indigenous practices continued in secret or were syncretized with Christian practices, preserving aspects of the old beliefs under the veneer of Catholicism.

Cultural and Religious Resistance (1550 CE - 1700 CE): Throughout the colonial period the encomienda system is put in place to drain Mexico of its natural wealth funneling it to Spain, indigenous communities despite disease, widespread death, and colonization, found ways to resist cultural and religious erasure. The worship of figures like Tezcatlipoca persisted clandestinely, and in some cases, indigenous deities were fused with Catholic saints to ensure their survival like Santa Muerte (Mictecacihuatl), The Virgin Mary (Tonantzin)(Coatlicue), and in Mexican folklore La Llorona (Cihuacoatl). This period was marked by a complex interplay of resistance and adaptation, with indigenous peoples navigating the oppressive colonial landscape to retain their cultural identity and spiritual practices.

Late Colonial Period and the Seeds of Independence (1700 CE - 1821 CE): The Bourbon Reforms in the 18th century and increasing discontent among the criollo (Mexican-born Spaniards) and mestizo (mixed heritage) populations laid the groundwork for independence. Intellectual and philosophical movements from Europe, combined with growing pride in Mexico's indigenous past, made Mexican born people who were oppressed begin to challenge the Spanish justification for colonial rule and the supremacy of European culture and religion.

Path to Independence and Religious Freedom (1810 - 1821 CE): The Mexican War of Independence, initiated by Miguel Hidalgo and figures like José María Morelos, both of whom were Catholic priests with sympathies towards indigenous causes, marked a decisive break from Spanish rule. The movement was not only a fight for political and economic freedom but also for cultural and religious liberation. The independence and liberation of Mexico in 1821 reopened the possibilities for the expression of indigenous identity and practices, including the revival of a pre-Hispanic religious traditions, in a newly sovereign nation. It did not come without death. Many Mexicans died to gain freedom, Miguel Hidalgo was shot by firing squad its said he told them to shoot at his right hand and placed it over his heart. The Spanish or the church beheaded his dead body after killing him they displayed him for the town to see, only infuriating the people further instead of being intimidated they fought against those who had committed so many injustices against them and their brave, goodhearted, beloved, God fearing man named Miguel Hidalgo (known in Mexico as El Cura Don Miguel Hidalgo). His Grito de Dolores aka Grito de Independencia is yelled by every Mexican President to this day, Most Recently current Mexican president AMLO Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador had the honor, his Grito de Independencia being here https://youtu.be/pYercQqq7-Q?si=NHkKLISN_l8wK_sP he goes live everyday on his channel 2-3 hours a day live, he talks a lot about Mexico's Ancient Culture.

Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) has left an indelible impact on Mexico through his dedication to fighting corruption, his focus on social justice, and his unwavering commitment to protecting and revitalizing Mexico’s indigenous and cultural heritage. His leadership is defined by his transparency, humility, and efforts to strengthen Mexico's national identity, economy, and sovereignty.

AMLO began his political career in 1977 as the Director of the Instituto Nacional Indigenista (INI) in Tabasco. In this role, he worked closely with Mexico’s indigenous communities, focusing on improving their living conditions and preserving their cultural heritage. This early experience shaped AMLO’s understanding of indigenous struggles and instilled in him a deep respect for the history, traditions, and rights of these communities. His time in the INI influenced his later political career, making him a lifelong advocate for indigenous rights and social justice.

AMLO’s path to the presidency was a long and difficult one. He ran for president three times, with the most controversial election being in 2006, when accusations of fraud surrounded the outcome. It is widely believed that AMLO may have been cheated out of victory, and even some officials later admitted to irregularities. He ran again in 2012, where the results were extremely close. Despite these setbacks, AMLO never gave up, and in 2018, he finally won the presidency, becoming the leader of Mexico through his steadfast principles and reputation for incorruptibility.

Once in office, AMLO set about tackling corruption and enacting economic reforms to improve the lives of Mexico’s working-class citizens. One of his most significant achievements was the doubling of the minimum wage, from 73 pesos (3.66 USD) in 2016 to 240 pesos (12.00 USD) by 2024. To ensure this wage increase did not negatively affect consumers, he placed limits on businesses, preventing them from raising prices beyond inflation.

AMLO’s administration is also known for its transparency. His mañaneras—daily live-streamed press conferences held five days a week—run for 2-3 hours where he engages directly with the public on various issues. With over 1,300 mañaneras to date, AMLO’s willingness to communicate openly with the people has helped strengthen public trust in his leadership.

AMLO has been a fierce advocate for Mexico’s sovereignty over its natural resources. He successfully reclaimed control over two major state-owned enterprises:

• PEMEX (Petróleos Mexicanos): AMLO has worked to revive Mexico’s national oil company, helping it overcome financial struggles and improving its production capacity.
• CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad): Similarly, AMLO strengthened Mexico’s state-owned electric company, ensuring energy sovereignty and reducing reliance on foreign corporations.

In addition, AMLO made a bold move by nationalizing Mexico's lithium reserves. This is a crucial step for the country’s future, as lithium is a valuable resource for the production of batteries and electric vehicles, positioning Mexico to benefit from the global shift toward renewable energy.

AMLO has not only focused on economic and energy reforms but also spearheaded several infrastructure projects that highlight both Mexico’s modernization and its rich cultural heritage:

• El Satélite Azteca: A collaborative project with NASA, symbolizing Mexico’s leap into scientific and technological advancement.
• Tren Maya: One of AMLO’s flagship infrastructure projects, this railway will boost economic development in southern Mexico while preserving and promoting the region’s indigenous cultures and environmental sustainability.
• Parque del Jaguar at Lake Texcoco: AMLO has prioritized the creation of national parks and protected areas. At Lake Texcoco, the historical site of Tenochtitlán, AMLO inaugurated a national park to safeguard the land from exploitation and honor the Aztec capital and its deep cultural legacy.

One of the most emotional and symbolic moments of AMLO’s presidency occurred when he was presented with the Bastón del Mando by the indigenous leaders of Mexico. In a heartfelt ceremony, AMLO knelt before the indigenous elders as they knelt to him and handed him this symbol of leadership and responsibility. The elder presenting the staff was moved to tears, reflecting the profound significance of having a president who respects and honors the originary peoples of Mexico. This act was a powerful display of AMLO’s humility and dedication to the Mexican people, particularly its indigenous communities.

AMLO’s knowledge and appreciation for Mexico’s history and its originary cultures set him apart as a leader. He often incorporates lessons from the country’s pre-Hispanic and revolutionary past into his presidency, promoting the preservation of Native Mexican traditions. Having lived among indigenous communities early in his career, AMLO carries with him an intimate understanding of Mexico’s ancient culture and works tirelessly to ensure that these traditions are not lost but celebrated as an integral part of the nation’s identity.

Post-Independence and the Revival of Indigenous Traditions: While the immediate post-independence period did not see a wholesale revival of pre-Hispanic religions, it set the stage for a greater appreciation and reassessment of indigenous cultural and spiritual practices. Over time, this led to a broader recognition of Mexico's rich pre-colonial heritage, including a reevaluation of figures like Tezcatlipoca, not as demonic entities but as integral parts of Mexico's cultural and religious landscape. 

America: United States Religious Freedom:

While Mexico's post-independence period marked a slow but steady shift towards recognizing and valuing its indigenous cultural and spiritual traditions, it's worth noting the broader context of religious freedom in the Americas during this era. The United States, having established its independence earlier, in 1776, with the Declaration of Independence, emerged as a nation committed to principles of freedom and democracy, including religious freedom as enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1791. This commitment provided a model that influenced global perspectives on individual rights and freedoms. The unfolding American narrative of liberty and freedom, particularly in terms of religion, offered a contrasting backdrop to Mexico's own struggles and gradual reforms. Shared Ideals and Aspirations:

At their core, both America and Mexico embody the beautiful spirit of aspiration toward freedom and liberty, principles deeply ingrained in the founding fathers and the people who fought for their freedoms and independence. These nations were built by individuals who dreamed of a future where no person would have dominion over another—a future where every individual would have the opportunity to pursue their own destiny and choose their leaders in democracy. This shared foundation reflects the universal longing for dignity and self-determination. Nations and cultures were formed, revived, and destroyed, through their struggles for independence and the ongoing journeys toward true equality. In the United States, the Declaration of Independence articulated a vision of a nation committed to the ideals of liberty and justice. Despite the challenges and contradictions that arose, such as the delayed confrontation with the injustice of slavery, this foundational principle has continued to inspire movements for change and reform throughout American history.

Similarly, Mexico's fight for independence was fueled by a desire to cast off the shackles of colonial oppression and forge a nation that could proudly reclaim its rich indigenous heritage and assert its right to self-governance. Over the centuries, this has evolved into a robust dialogue about national identity, cultural pride, and the rights of indigenous communities, reflecting a continual reassessment and affirmation of Mexico's foundational values.

As neighbors and partners on the North American continent, the United States and Mexico share more than a border; they share a historical narrative of striving toward the ideals on which they were founded which share the fundamentals of personal and religious freedoms.

 TEZCATLIPOCA HISTORICAL CONTEXT:  

Antes de profundizar en la historia de México y el papel fundamental de Tezcatlipoca a lo largo de miles de años en civilizaciones pasadas y presentes, es esencial reconocer las corrientes históricas y culturales más amplias que dieron forma a la aparición de los mexicas, la revitalización de México y la veneración de esta poderosa deidad. La influencia de Tezcatlipoca fue vasta y se extiende más allá de los límites de una sola cultura, resonando en las culturas y civilizaciones de los pueblos mesoamericanos a través de diferentes eras y nombres. Por ejemplo, los toltecas desde el año 700 d.C. tenían una leyenda sobre Tezcatlipoca destronando a su rey y sumo sacerdote Quetzalcóatl. Y entre los olmecas en el 1400 a.C., parece que comenzó a cristalizarse como una deidad. Esta introducción prepara el escenario para explorar el lugar de Tezcatlipoca dentro del gran relato de la migración, la síntesis cultural y los motivos universales de creación y dualidad.

Tezcatlipoca se puede discernir en las deidades de civilizaciones anteriores, como los olmecas, toltecas y mayas, lo que sugiere una herencia cultural compartida que precede la formación del Imperio azteca. Los lingüistas han rastreado que la lengua náhuatl es parte de una familia mucho más grande de lenguas que abarca la mayoría de las tribus nativas de América del Norte a América del Sur. El hecho de que estas lenguas estén conectadas, así como las representaciones de Tezcatlipoca y Quetzalcóatl en estas culturas, además de la constante iconografía del águila y el jaguar, subraya la interconexión de las prácticas lingüísticas y religiosas mesoamericanas, y la fluidez de los arquetipos divinos en la región.

La Migración: De Aztlán a Tenochtitlán

Para entender el mundo azteca, es central el épico relato de la migración mexica desde su mítico lugar de origen en el norte, Aztlán, hasta el establecimiento de Tenochtitlán, el corazón de su imperio, en el Valle de México. Comenzando su viaje hacia el sur alrededor del año 1111 d.C., bajo la guía de Huitzilopochtli para encontrar su nuevo hogar, se les ordenó detenerse cuando vieran el signo de un águila devorando una serpiente sobre un nopal. Esta odisea duró doscientos años hasta aproximadamente 1325 d.C., cuando vieron el águila posada sobre un nopal comiendo una serpiente en medio de un lago. Construyeron Tenochtitlán allí, en medio del lago, debido al signo de Huitzilopochtli, un testimonio de la fuerza, resistencia, fe y destino del pueblo mexica.

Periodo Lítico (antes de 8000 BCE.)

En este período, no hay evidencia directa de prácticas o creencias específicamente relacionadas con Tezcatlipoca o cualquier dios aún. Sin embargo, existían prácticas espirituales o rituales que más tarde evolucionarían en sistemas religiosos más complejos.

Periodo Arcaico (antes de 2000 BCE)

La agricultura avanzó, se establecieron aldeas permanentes y comenzaron a aparecer estructuras sociales como divisiones de clase. Muchas de las tecnologías básicas de Mesoamérica en términos de molienda de piedra, perforación, cerámica, etc., se establecieron durante este período. Aunque no hay evidencia directa del culto específico a Tezcatlipoca, hay evidencia de prácticas que podrían haber influido en Tezcatlipoca, preparando el escenario para prácticas religiosas más organizadas.

Periodo Preclásico o Formativo (2000 BCE - 250 )

Fase Barra (c. 1800–1500 a.C.)

Durante este período, el crecimiento en la complejidad social, evidenciado por avances en la cerámica y las estructuras sociales, indica una sociedad madura para la exploración espiritual. Aunque no hay evidencia directa del culto a Tezcatlipoca, estos desarrollos sugieren un entorno donde se habrían conceptualizado y venerado deidades complejas.

Fase Ocós (1500–1200 a.C.)

Esta fase se caracterizó por importantes avances que moldearon el paisaje religioso de Mesoamérica. La creciente complejidad de las prácticas religiosas durante este tiempo indica un entorno en el que podrían surgir dioses especializados como Tezcatlipoca.

Fase Locona (1200–1000 a.C.)

A medida que las sociedades mesoamericanas continuaban evolucionando, la Fase Locona sentó las bases para que se arraigaran prácticas religiosas organizadas. La complejidad de estas sociedades proporcionó un terreno fértil para la introducción y adoración de deidades específicas, ofreciendo una plataforma para el advenimiento del culto a Tezcatlipoca.

Periodo Olmeca (1200–400 a.C.)

Tezcatlipoca comenzó a cristalizarse como una deidad durante el período olmeca, que vio la formación de un panteón de dioses. Algunos artefactos olmecas sugieren figuras que podrían ser representaciones tempranas de Tezcatlipoca.

Periodo Clásico (250 d.C. - 900 d.C.)

Clásico Temprano (250 d.C. - 600 d.C.)

Tezcatlipoca era parte de las prácticas religiosas en Teotihuacan, los toltecas y posiblemente entre los mayas, aunque bajo diferentes nombres y atributos.

Clásico Medio (600 d.C. - 700 d.C.)

La influencia de la deidad continuó creciendo, especialmente a medida que la influencia de Teotihuacan disminuía y surgían nuevas ciudades-estado.

Clásico Tardío (700 d.C. - 900 d.C.)

El culto a Tezcatlipoca estaba muy extendido en este punto, especialmente en la cultura tolteca que comenzó a surgir hacia el final de este período.

Periodo Posclásico (900 d.C. - 1521 d.C.)

Posclásico Temprano (900 d.C. - 1200 d.C.)

Tezcatlipoca era una deidad importante en la religión tolteca, y su influencia se extendió a través de sus interacciones con otros grupos mesoamericanos.

Posclásico Tardío (1200 d.C. - 1521 d.C.)

Tezcatlipoca alcanzó el apogeo de su culto entre los aztecas, sirviendo como una figura central en su religión y mitología.

Periodo de Contacto (1521 d.C. - 1600 d.C.)

Contacto Temprano (1521 d.C. - 1550 d.C.)

El culto a Tezcatlipoca y otras deidades indígenas comenzó a declinar a medida que los conquistadores españoles imponían su voluntad, junto con enfermedades, el cristianismo y el catolicismo.

Contacto Tardío (1550 d.C. - 1600 d.C.)

Para este punto, la religión y la cultura indígena fueron fuertemente reprimidas y demonizadas por los cristianos y católicos, con aproximadamente el 90% de la población nativa muriendo a causa de enfermedades traídas por los colonizadores. Sin embargo, el culto a Tezcatlipoca persistió, ya que hay documentos posteriores a este período que mencionan a Tezcatlipoca, provenientes de personas nativas que sobrevivieron y que los escribas españoles tradujeron y publicaron.

Dominio Colonial (1521 d.C. - 1821 d.C.)

Supresión Temprana y Conversión Forzada (1521 d.C. - 1550 d.C.): 

Tras la caída del Imperio Azteca, los conquistadores y misioneros españoles desmantelaron sistemáticamente las estructuras religiosas indígenas, viéndolas como paganas o bárbaras. Los templos fueron destruidos y los ídolos religiosos, como Tezcatlipoca, fueron erradicados. Los españoles impusieron el cristianismo, a menudo por la fuerza, impactando significativamente la práctica de las religiones indígenas. A pesar de estos esfuerzos, muchas prácticas indígenas continuaron en secreto o se sincretizaron con prácticas cristianas, preservando aspectos de las antiguas creencias bajo la apariencia del catolicismo.

Resistencia Cultural y Religiosa (1550 d.C. - 1700 d.C.): Durante el período colonial, las comunidades indígenas, a pesar de la enfermedad, la muerte generalizada y la colonización, encontraron formas de resistir la eliminación cultural y religiosa. El culto a figuras como Tezcatlipoca persistió de manera clandestina y, en algunos casos, las deidades indígenas se fusionaron con santos católicos para asegurar su supervivencia, como Santa Muerte (Mictecacihuatl), la Virgen María (Tonantzin) (Coatlicue) y en el folclore mexicano La Llorona (Cihuacóatl). Este período estuvo marcado por una compleja interacción de resistencia y adaptación, con los pueblos indígenas navegando el opresivo paisaje colonial para conservar su identidad cultural y prácticas espirituales.

Período Colonial Tardío y las Semillas de la Independencia (1700 d.C. - 1821 d.C.): Las Reformas Borbónicas en el siglo XVIII y el creciente descontento entre la población criolla (españoles nacidos en México) y mestiza (herencia mixta) sentaron las bases para la independencia. Movimientos intelectuales y filosóficos provenientes de Europa, combinados con un creciente orgullo en el pasado indígena de México, hicieron que las personas nacidas en México, que estaban oprimidas, comenzaran a cuestionar la justificación española para el dominio colonial y la supremacía de la cultura y religión europeas.

Camino hacia la Independencia y la Libertad Religiosa (1810 d.C. - 1821 d.C.): La Guerra de Independencia de México, iniciada por Miguel Hidalgo y figuras como José María Morelos, ambos sacerdotes católicos con simpatías hacia las causas indígenas, marcó una ruptura decisiva con el dominio español. El movimiento no solo fue una lucha por la libertad política y económica, sino también por la liberación cultural y religiosa. La independencia y liberación de México en 1821 reabrió las posibilidades para la expresión de la identidad y las prácticas indígenas, incluyendo el resurgimiento de las tradiciones religiosas prehispánicas, en una nación recién soberana. No fue sin muerte. Muchos mexicanos murieron para ganar la libertad. Miguel Hidalgo fue fusilado por un pelotón de fusilamiento. Se dice que les pidió que dispararan a su mano derecha y la colocó sobre su corazón. Los españoles o la iglesia decapitaron su cuerpo muerto después de matarlo y lo exhibieron para que lo viera el pueblo. En lugar de intimidar, esto enfureció aún más a las personas, que lucharon contra quienes habían cometido tantas injusticias contra ellos y su valiente, bondadoso y amado hombre temeroso de Dios llamado Miguel Hidalgo (conocido en México como El Cura Don Miguel Hidalgo). Su Grito de Dolores, también conocido como Grito de Independencia, es gritado por cada presidente mexicano hasta el día de hoy. Recientemente, el presidente mexicano AMLO (Andrés Manuel López Obrador) tuvo el honor. Aquí está su Grito de Independencia: enlace. Va en vivo todos los días en su canal y habla mucho sobre la antigua cultura de México.

Período Posterior a la Independencia y el Renacimiento de las Tradiciones Indígenas: Aunque el período inmediato posterior a la independencia no vio un renacimiento generalizado de las religiones prehispánicas, preparó el terreno para una mayor apreciación y reevaluación de las prácticas culturales y espirituales indígenas. Con el tiempo, esto llevó a un reconocimiento más amplio del rico patrimonio precolonial de México, incluyendo una reevaluación de figuras como Tezcatlipoca, no como entidades demoníacas, sino como partes integrales del paisaje cultural y religioso de México.

América: Libertad Religiosa en Estados Unidos

Mientras que el período posterior a la independencia de México marcó un cambio lento pero constante hacia el reconocimiento y la valoración de sus tradiciones culturales y espirituales indígenas, vale la pena señalar el contexto más amplio de la libertad religiosa en las Américas durante esta era. Los Estados Unidos, habiendo establecido su independencia antes, en 1776, con la Declaración de Independencia, surgieron como una nación comprometida con los principios de libertad y democracia, incluyendo la libertad religiosa consagrada en la Primera Enmienda de la Constitución de los Estados Unidos en 1791. Este compromiso proporcionó un modelo que influyó en las perspectivas globales sobre los derechos y libertades individuales. La narrativa estadounidense de libertad y democracia, particularmente en términos de religión, ofreció un telón de fondo contrastante con las propias luchas y reformas graduales de México.

Ideales y Aspiraciones Compartidas:

En su esencia, tanto América como México encarnan el hermoso espíritu de aspiración hacia la libertad y la libertad, principios profundamente arraigados en los padres fundadores y las personas que lucharon por sus libertades e independencia. Estas naciones fueron construidas por individuos que soñaron con un futuro donde ninguna persona tuviera dominio sobre otra, un futuro donde cada individuo tuviera la oportunidad de perseguir su propio destino y elegir a sus líderes en una democracia. Este fundamento compartido refleja el anhelo universal de dignidad y autodeterminación. Las naciones y culturas se formaron, revivieron y destruyeron a través de sus luchas por la independencia y los viajes continuos hacia la verdadera igualdad. En los Estados Unidos, la Declaración de Independencia articuló una visión de una nación comprometida con los ideales de libertad y justicia. A pesar de los desafíos y contradicciones que surgieron, como la confrontación retrasada con la injusticia de la esclavitud, este principio fundamental ha continuado inspirando movimientos para el cambio y la reforma a lo largo de la historia estadounidense.

De manera similar, la lucha de México por la independencia fue impulsada por el deseo de liberarse de las cadenas de la opresión colonial y forjar una nación que pudiera reclamar con orgullo su rico patrimonio indígena y afirmar su derecho a la autogobernanza. A lo largo de los siglos, esto ha evolucionado en un diálogo robusto sobre la identidad nacional, el orgullo cultural y los derechos de las comunidades indígenas, reflejando una reevaluación y afirmación continuas de los valores fundamentales de México.

Como vecinos y socios en el continente norteamericano, los Estados Unidos y México comparten más que una frontera; comparten una narrativa histórica de lucha por los ideales sobre los que fueron fundados, que comparten los fundamentos de las libertades personales y religiosas.