The land mass of what is today described as Modern-Mexico is still inhabited by a large number of indigenous peoples that pre-date the conquistadors. In fact the CDI registers no less than 62 distinct native peoples living throughout the region. Indeed the majority of the inhabitants of the Yucatan peninsula are of native stock, with significant populations of Nahua, Aztecs, Mazahua and Otomi still living in the heart of mainland Mexico. These are of course an ancient people whose traditions and beliefs are steeped in history and whose travels throughout the Americas have been charted by many differing modes of transport.
By Land
The classic view of the Native American astride a majestic mustang is hardwired into the European view of these people, not least though the big screen. However, it must be remembered that the horse is not a native species of the Americas and only arrived with the first colonizers of the land. Much of the early movements of these ancient people over land at least, was accomplished on foot.
It is extremely hard to believe that the Aztec temples and massive urban structures that surround them, all built from stone, were created without the help of beasts of burden. It is hard to imagine that all mass movements of people and battles for territory between rival populations were carried out on foot. To think that vast civilisations such as that of the Aztecs were created without any travel aids whatsoever and that here in the UK we were still only just coming out of the Iron Age is quite remarkable.
By Sea
It is commonly known that Mexico is bordered on both sides by the ocean; the Pacific to the west and the Atlantic to the east. It may be a little less well known that Mexico is a land rich in lakes and ancient man-made waterways. For thousands of years the native peoples of this land have used dugout canoes as a means of transport along the coast and inland across lakes and along rivers and canals. Usually small, fast and maneuverable, some dugout where made over 30 feet in length and used to carry heavy goods around the region. Boat transport has also played a significant part in trade. Canoes and sailing vessels were and still are, used for fishing to sustain villages and also sell or barter for other goods. Ultimately, transportation across the oceans allowed these civilizations to experience new worlds. It is certainly documented that Native North Americans traveled extensively to Europe prior to the arrival of the Pilgrim Fathers. It must be assumed that Native Mexicans did much the same.
Transport has, as with all cultures, played a significant part in the development and continued survival of the indigenous population of Mexico. The country is a fascinating place to visit. Many academics have taken a career break to come and study both the history and the current culture of the Native Mexican tribes people. Those who have a yearning to teach abroad could do worse than consider a career break to live and teach amongst these fascinating people.
Phil Wallace writes regularly on ancient civilizations for historical magazines and websites.