Mexico

I: BACKGROUND

Part 1: Mexico Fact Sheet

Visit the Web sites below to find out about the basics of Mexican geography.

World Almanac for Kids

A country study of Mexico from the Library of Congress

Mexico for Kids is a site created by the office of the President of Mexico to teach children about the country and culture.

1. What is the full name of Mexico?
United Mexican States (Estados Unidos Mexicanos)

2. What is the capital of Mexico?
Mexico City

3. Describe the location of Mexico.
In North America, south of United States

4. What is the area of Mexico?
761, 610 sq. mi.

5. What is the population of Mexico?
103,400,165

6. What is the currency of Mexico?
The Peso

7. Name three languages spoken in Mexico.
Spanish (primary), Nahuatl (Aztec), Maya, Otomi

Geographical Features

8. Name a major mountain range in Mexico.
The Sierra Madres

9. Name the major river in Mexico.
The Rio Bravo (called the Rio Grande in the US)

10. What makes Mexico hot?
It is bisected by the Tropic of Cancer and it is in the southern half in the Torrid zone

11. Mexico is divided into how many states?
31 states, each with a capital

12. Name the three major ethnic groups in Mexico.
People of Spanish descent, Indians, mestizos (people of mixed descent)

13.What religions are practiced in Mexico?
90% of Mexicans are Catholic and traditional religions are also practiced

14. What is education like in Mexico?
Education is free and compulsory for boys and girls through the age of 15

15. What percent of the labor force is engaged in agriculture?
More than 25%

16. What are the major crops grown in Mexico?
Sugarcane, corn, sorghum, oranges, and green chiles

17. What animals are raised in Mexico?
Cattle, hogs, goats, sheep, chickens

18. What type of government exisits in Mexico?
A Federal Republic, with a president elected for a six year term.
There are two houses of government-a Senate and a Chamber of Deputies.