Government
What is the structure of Mexico’s federal system, and how does it distribute power to its subunits?
A true federal state with devolution of power to 31 subunits (states).
How do urban and rural populations in Mexico differ politically?
Urban voters (75%) tend to oppose PRI, while rural voters (25%) historically support it.
What is the Pendulum Theory?
Set out to economic liberalization and more capitalist
Mexico kept going socialist and capitalist till 1970
By 1970’s it stopped and new generation of tecnico-educated, business oriented leaders took control
By the 1980’s neoliberalism with a free market, balanced budget, privatization, free trade, and limited self government
What was the "Mexican Miracle"?
The "Mexican Miracle" was a period of economic growth from 1940-1960, with the economy growing by 6% per year.
How is the Mexican president elected, and what is the length of their term?
FPTP-plurality-no run off (winner takes all) for a single six-year term (sexenio).
What is the main socioeconomic divide in Mexico’s population, and how does it affect political participation?
The middle class is growing due to new industries, while the poor remain less educated, have lower life expectancy, and participate less politically.
Who was the Mexican dictator that ruled between 1876-1911, and what was that time period called?
Dictator: Porfirio Diaz
Time Period: The Porfiriato (1876-1911)
What were Mexico's main exports before and after the Oil Crisis
Before: GDP mainly by Oil
After: GDP mainly by agriculture (exports food to the USA), industries, and services (tourism/resorts)
What electoral system does the Chamber of Deputies use to elect its 500 members?
300 deputies are elected by majority in single-member districts, and 200 through proportional representation.
How do ethnic cleavages between Mestizos and Amerindians contribute to political instability?
Amerindians (30%) are poorer and more rural, leading to economic disparities and political unrest.
What 1968 event involved student protests that led to a government massacre?
The Tlatelolco Massacre occurred in 1968 when student protests against the lack of democracy were violently suppressed by the government.
What state-run oil company controlled Mexico’s oil industry before partial privatization?
PEMEX, Mexico’s state-run oil company, controlled the industry before privatization.
What recent judicial reform did MORENA implement, and why is it controversial?
Judges are now elected instead of appointed, raising concerns about political bias in a system meant to be non-partisan.
Who were the Caudillos?
A strongman who rizzes the people rather than by military force to keep political forces under control through promotion of allegiance with a central leader.
What is 1 important law from the 1917 constitution that was changed in 2015?
1917 Constitution: All subsoil rights belong to the state (oil, minerals, ground water, etc.)
In 2015, PEMEX is denationalized, where other foreign companies can invest into it.
What is the "resource curse" and how does it impact Mexico?
Mexico’s reliance on oil has led to corruption, economic instability, and vulnerability to global oil price fluctuations.
Give descriptions for each level of government consisting of the Supranational, National, and Local
Supranational: Mexico is a member of international organizations like the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), and NAFTA/USMCA.
National: The federal government operates under a constitution with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.
Local: Mexico has 31 states and a Federal District (Mexico City), each with its own local government.
What are the three main political parties in Mexico, and what are their ideological positions?
PRI (centrist, economic development), Morena (leftist, anti-corruption), PAN (center-right, free market, conservative social policies).
How does corruption impact Mexico’s bureaucracy, military, and police?
Corruption is widespread, with the military, police, and cartels working together. Bribery is common in the bureaucracy.
How does Mexico’s economy show signs of dependency on the United States?
Mexico follows economic trends from the U.S. due to trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA and reliance on American markets.