Spanish Heritage - Hernando Cortes arrived in 1519 and two years later conquered the Aztec. Mexico became a Spanish colony for 300 years. Mestizo is a person of mixed European and Native American heritage. Modern Mexico - Mexico became independent in 1821. Wealthy families, the army, and the church controlled to government and did little to improve life for the poor.
Cities are a combination of old and new.
Poor people build homes of scraps of wood, metal, or other found materials. Many lack electricity and running water. Villagers are poor. Homes are often cement block, sheet metal, straw, or clay. Narrow streets lead to a central plaza with churches, shops, and government buildings.