Why Isn't Central America Part of Mexico? | Explained
OUTLINE:
00:00:00 Seeds of Division
00:00:41 A New Era Dawns
00:01:22 Unity or Independence?
00:01:58 A Dream Unrealized
00:02:47 The United States and Great Britain
00:04:33 A House Divided
00:05:12 Forging Separate Identities
00:07:28 The Dissolution of the Federal Republic
00:09:03 Challenges and Opportunities
00:09:41 A Tapestry of Cultures
Central America isn't part of Mexico primarily due to historical, political, and cultural developments that led to the region's distinct identity and independence.
Historical Context
Spanish Colonization:
During the Spanish colonization of the Americas, Central America was part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, which included present-day Mexico, Central America, and other territories.
Central America was administratively separated from Mexico early on. For instance, the Audiencia of Guatemala was established in the 16th century to govern most of Central America.
Independence Movements:
The early 19th century saw widespread independence movements across Latin America.
In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain and Central American territories, including Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, declared independence as well.
Mexican Empire:
Shortly after independence, Central America briefly joined the First Mexican Empire under Agustín de Iturbide in 1821.
This union was short-lived due to political disagreements and geographical challenges.
Federal Republic of Central America:
In 1823, after the fall of Iturbide, Central American states formed the United Provinces of Central America, which later became the Federal Republic of Central America.
This federation dissolved by 1841 due to internal conflicts, resulting in the independent countries we know today.
Cultural and Political Factors
Geographical Barriers:
Central America and Mexico are geographically distinct, separated by the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This natural barrier contributed to the development of separate identities.
Diverse Indigenous and Colonial Histories:
The indigenous populations of Central America (such as the Maya) and their historical development differed from those in central and northern Mexico.
Spanish colonial policies and the local economies also evolved differently in these regions.
National Identities:
Over time, distinct national identities emerged in the Central American countries, fueled by local traditions, governance, and economic interests.
International Recognition:
The international community recognized the independence of the Central American countries from both Spain and Mexico, solidifying their separate statuses.
In summary, Central America is not part of Mexico due to a combination of historical developments during and after the colonial period, geographical distinctions, and the emergence of distinct national identities in the region.