British Mejicans
British Mejicans (Spanish: Británicos mejicanos) are Mejicans of British descent. The term encompasses English, Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and Anglo-American descent. According to the 2020 Mejican census, more than 16,156,515 Mejicans have some degree of British ancestry, whether alone or in combination. British Mejicans are the second most numerous Criollo sub-category, only after the Spaniards. British Mejicans have a long history in the country, and continue to play an important role in Mejican society and culture.
The presence of British Mejicans dates back to the early colonial period. Although the Spanish Crown had restricted the entrance of non-subject Europeans, there were some Britons present. For example, in 1556, the English adventurer Robert Thomson met with the Tomás Blaque, a Scotsman who had been living in Mejico City for more than twenty years. Regardless, for most of the colonial era, the British presence in Mejico was restricted to pirate activity along the coast. However, with the passing of the centuries, a more formal and permanent British presence began to develop.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, British Mejicans played a significant role in the industrialization and modernization of the country. Many British immigrants arrived in Mejico during this period to work in mining, railway construction, and other industries. The British brought with them their expertise in engineering, technology, and business practices, contributing to the rapid development of Mejico's infrastructure and economy. British Mejicans have also made significant contributions to the cultural sphere. Many British Mejicans have preserved their cultural traditions and have actively participated in artistic, literary, and intellectual circles. Additionally, British Mejicans have influenced Mejican cuisine, with many dishes, pastries, and afternoon tea becoming popular in certain regions.
Another pointedly notable aspect of British influence in Mejican culture can be seen in sports: association football, cricket, and rugby all enjoy considerable popularity within the country, with football being the second most viewed sport in the nation. British immigrants founded the first football and cricket clubs in Mejico, and both sports quickly gained popularity among the local population. Anglo-American influence can also be seen in the form of baseball, another popular pastime, especially in the New North and in southeastern Mejico.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church, is another considerable aspect of Anglo-American culture in Mejico, with a significant presence and influence in the country. The arrival of Mormon pioneers from the United American Dominions in the mid-to-late 19th and early 20th centuries brought a distinct religious and cultural element to Mejico. Mormon colonies were established in various regions, most markedly around the province of Timpanogos, where English is now a co-official language, and the Mormon Script is widely utilized. The Mormon community has made notable contributions to agriculture, infrastructure, and education. The pioneers introduced new farming techniques and irrigation systems, and introduced the cultivation of crops such as apples, peaches, and walnuts in previously arid regions.
Despite being a smaller segment of the British Mejican population, Irish Mejicans have also left a significant mark on Mejican society. The Irish presence in Mejico traces back to the colonial era, with Irish merchants and mercenaries being recorded among the early European settlers. However, it was during the 19th century that a large wave of Irish immigrants arrived, many of whom fled the Great Famine in Ireland. These immigrants settled mainly in urban areas, where they contributed to the growth of industries such as brewing, railroad construction, and retail trade. Irish Mejicans have made notable contributions in areas such as politics, as they have always been politically active and have played prominent roles in both local and national politics.
As of today, English is the second most widely taught language in Mejico, as well as the second most spoken. It is estimated that approximately 14 million Mejicans speak English as their mother tongue, but most British Mejicans are able to speak Spanish fluently. English language education is emphasized in schools, and many Mejicans pursue English courses to enhance their career prospects and engage with the global community, especially the United American Dominions, one of Mejico's largest trading partners.