AP Comparative Government

Indigenous Populations in Mexico

Maya, Olmec, Toltec, Aztec groups that existed before Spanish conquest.

Porfirio Diaz

Military dictator of Mexico from 1876 to 1911, known for modernization policies.

Mexican Revolution (1910-1920)

A civil war that opposed the dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz and sought reforms.

El Dedazo

Tradition of Mexican presidents hand-picking their successors.

Federalism in Mexico

Power and authority shared between national government and 32 divisions (31 states and Mexico City).

1917 Constitution

Established a constitutional presidential republic with civil liberties, land reform, and separation of church and state.

Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI)

Political party that governed Mexico from 1929 to 2000, formed to stabilize the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution.

Separation of Powers

Principle that ensures all three branches of government in Mexico are independent.

Cleavages

Political, economic, or social divisions that influence behavior, like voting.

Cientificos

Technical advisors with political power under Porfirio Diaz, instrumental in modernization.

Economic Policies during Porfiriato

Policies aimed at modernization, foreign investment, and suppression of civil liberties.

Municipalities in Mexico

2,476 regions that have regional autonomy and elections within states.

Powers of the Mexican President

Includes executing laws, appointing officials, managing foreign policy, and ensuring national security.

War against French Intervention

Effort to resist French attempts to establish a constitutional monarchy in Mexico.

Restored Republic

Period after victory against France and before the dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz.

Commitment to Land Reform

A pledge in the 1917 Constitution aimed at aiding poor peasants in Mexico.

Bicameral Legislature

The structure of Mexico's legislative branch consisting of a Senate and Chamber of Deputies.

Cult of Personality

The phenomenon where a leader, like Porfirio Diaz, becomes a revered figure, often overshadowing the political regime.

Representation in Government

Mexican citizens elect representatives at national, state, and local levels.

Checks on Presidential Power

The requirement for legislative approval for certain presidential appointments and foreign treaties.

Political Corruption during Diaz's Regime

Widespread corruption and restriction of civil liberties that led to dissatisfaction among Mexicans.