Expert: Ralph Salier - 12/18/2006

Question
Discuss the distinctions of Indio and Mestizo in Mexican society, in terms of a)identity, b) ideology c) behavior, d) wealth/economic opportunities, and e) openness to change.  What are the ramifications of such distinctions for Mexico in general, and for Mexico in the global community?

Answer
Hi Michael,

You have 4 primary groups in Mexico.  Members of the indigeous population (Indios or Indians), Mestizo or people of mixed Indian and European blood, "Pure bloods" or Spaniard families who can trace themselves back to the conquistadores and 4, the relatively modern Europeans and others who have made Mexico home.  Each of these groups have their own identity, ideology, behavior and position in the socio-economic frame work of Mexico.

In  terms of Identity and ideology these show up as very distinct separation between the classes where Indio and Mestizo are the lower and working classes.  They are highly adaptable and are open to change except in religious belief and the conservative ideologies which come from associated values. But these people are highly entrapanureial and do what is needed to survive a harsh economic landscape.  Most of the wealth is held by the upper classes which include the modern Europeans and higher class old Spanish families. There is a clear distintion between these folks too however and the identity and ideology here is very rigid as is the behavior and opennes to change, they don't. There is a growing middle class.  Most are from old Spanish decent but many are up and coming Indios and Mestizos too.  These are people who have had the benefit of education and have been given opportunities to grow and they have done so.  Here the identity, ideology and flexibility is the strongest as is the openness to change.  The hundreds of small shops are an indication of their desire to expand t heir own horizons.  

I biggest hurdel for Mexico is the ingrained poverty and graft.  Both "steal" the wealth of Mexico.  Between the oil and mineral resources, there should be no poverty in Mexico, every one should have access to health care and schools and the roads, transport systems  and other aspects of infrastructure should  be strenthening Mexico.  However it only serves the wealthy.

Mexico could  be a powerhouse but instead it will always be a third world country.