How to Distinguish Between Mexican and Spanish Customs

Even though 500 years of Spanish culture has had a major impact on the native traditions of Mexico, Mexican customs still maintain a unique cultural identity. The term Spanish is often confused as reference to all Spanish speakers as the same cultural group, however Spanish customs are distinct from Mexican customs, and there are many ways to identify the difference between the two.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Listen for language differences. In Spain a classic Spanish is spoken, utilizing the 'vosotros' form in addition to the 'ustedes' form used in Mexico. There are lower literacy rates in Mexico, which lead to a less academic form of Spanish that includes more slang. Mexico's close vicinity to the US has resulted in the use of more English words in Mexico than in Spain.

2. Watch for subtle cultural differences. Spanish customs are highly influenced by Western society and the culture enjoys a higher economic status than Mexico, which affects customs such as education, dress and attitude. Mexico has suffered a long history of government corruption and has maintained many aspects of its pre-colonial, indigenous heritage, which has created many unique customs and a revolutionary energy.

3. Recognize the differences in family values. Family is the basic social structure in both Spanish and Mexican Culture, however an emphasis in university education in Spain has resulted in different customs; smaller family sizes, fewer family members sharing a household and fewer family run businesses than in Mexico.

4. Be aware of machismo, or male dominance, which is an old, traditional Spanish custom that was transferred to Mexico. Modernization and the effects of the feminist movement have drastically lowered the affects of machismo in Spain, but male dominance is still evident in Mexico.

5. Identify differences in religious customs. Roman Catholicism was brought to Mexico by the Spanish, but the strong influence of indigenous spirituality has mixed with Christianity throughout the country. Generally, religious icons, such as the Virgin of Guadalupe, will include references to Pachamama, or 'Mother Earth,' who is an important icon to Mexico's indigenous culture; while Spain has remained a predominantly traditionally Catholic nation.