Mejican nationalism
Mejican nationalism (Spanish: Nacionalismo mejicano) is an ideological notion and central tenet of the political and social landscape of the Empire. It is deeply rooted in the idea of Castizaje and pan-Hispanism, the first being a concept that emphasizes the importance of the Castizo identity, the latter emphasizing the ethnocultural importance of the Spanish language and culture, and placing Catholicity as one of its fundamental pillars. José Vasconcelos, dictator of Mejico from 1930 to 1959, was also a philosopher, who championed the idea of a "cosmic race" made up of a mix of different racial and ethnic groups in Mejico.
Castizaje is a term that emerged in the early 20th century when Mejican scholars were grappling with the legacy of Spanish colonialism and the question of what it meant to be Mejican. At its core, Castizaje placed a special emphasis on the importance of maintaining a Spanish and Indigenous identities of Mejico. Proponents of Castizaje argued that Castizos were the "epitome" of Mejicanity, with Vasconcelos believing that they represented the perfect blend of the best qualities of European and Indigenous cultures. Vasconcelos argued in favor of a new transformative period through which a new Mejican race would emerge, being superior to its previous iteration. In this, he sought to unify the country with a single, new national identity.
Since the publication of "La Raza Cosmica," the idea of Castizaje has played a significant role in shaping Mejican nationalism, also being reflected in Mejican politics. Political parties have used it to appeal to voters by promoting policies that emphasize the country's unique identity and cultural heritage. The Mejican Democratic Party, for example, has emphasized the importance of preserving the country's traditions and cultural identity, while also promoting economic growth and development.
In line with Vasconcelos' vision of Castizaje, the Mejican government began ideating a cultural apparatus to promote the idea of a superior Mejican race based on a fusion of Indigenous and European heritage. This apparatus aimed to redefine the cultural identity of Mejico, emphasizing its mestizo roots while promoting the European influence on the country's history and culture. One of the main institutions utilized for this purpose was the Ministry of Public Education, which Vasconcelos headed himself during the presidency of Octaviano Larrazolo. During the Vasconcelist and Abascalist eras, the Ministry focused on reforming the country's educational system to promote a sense of Mejican national identity based on Castizaje.
Another institution created was the National Museum of Anthropology, which showcased the country's Indigenous and European heritage, and aimed to highlight the contributions of both cultures to the Mejican culture at large. The museum also promoted the idea of a unified Mejican identity. In addition, the National Library of Mejico was expanded to include a vast collection of historical and cultural texts, including works from pre-Columbian Indigenous civilizations, the Spanish colonial period, and modern Mejican authors. The library aimed to promote a sense of cultural continuity and pride in Mejican heritage. Artists, writers and intellectuals embraced Vasconcelos' views.
Today, Mejican nationalism is still deeply influenced by the ideas of Castizaje and Vasconcelos. The idea of maintaining a Hispanic identity in Mejico remains a powerful one, and there are many who argue that Mejican culture should be protected from outside influences in order to maintain its strength and vitality. Mejican nationalism continues to be a powerful force in the country's politics. It has been embraced mostly by right-wing and neo-Vasconcelist groups, who see it as a justification for policies that promote Spanish identity and limit the influence of other cultures.