Famous Mexicans
Salma Hayek: This beauty was born in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico. She dropped out of college to pursue an acting career, much to her parents dismay. Her big break came in Desperado and she has been in several other hits since then.
Carlos Contreras: The first Mexican-born driver to start a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race when he took the green flag in the 1999 finale at California, and finished 14th. He is also a two-time Mustang champion in Mexico and has driven in the single seat Formula 3 Series.
A Brief History of Mexico
Extremely advanced people, including the Olmecs, Mayans, Toltecs and Aztecs, were around long before the Spanish took over. The Spanish couldn't wipe out the amazing culture of these Indians so instead they started living within the communities, which worked out for the next 300 years. The result of these cultures being merged is that there are now over 20 million Native Mexicans, speaking nearly 60 languages and dialects - and they are all descendants of those ancient people. In 1810 a war began for independence from Spain and a treaty was signed eleven years later. Problems with the border led to an invasion in 1847. A new treaty was signed and Mexico surrendered over half its territory for only $17 per square mile. That's pocket change. In 1910 Mexicans revolted against their unbearable living conditions. The battle, led by peasants, lasted for seven years, until new laws were passed. The same liberal laws apply today.
For more groovy facts about this Spanish-speaking country, click here.
