From the fall of the Aztec empire to the vibrancy of mariachi music, Mexico’s history is full of unforgettable chapters. However, one significant part of Mexico’s cultural heritage is often overlooked: its connection to the African diaspora. The Afro-Mexican community, rich in history and culture, remains largely unknown outside of Mexico, despite the country being home to one of the largest populations of African-descended people in Latin America.

The Afro-Mexican story is complex and intertwined with the history of slavery, colonization, and the formation of mestizo identity. When enslaved Africans were brought to Mexico by Spanish colonizers, the vast majority were male, and over time, they integrated into Indigenous communities. This created a mixed population whose Afro-Mexican heritage became less emphasized after Mexico’s independence. It was the mestizo identity that gained prominence, leading to a history where Afro-Mexican contributions were often erased or overlooked. However, these African roots are still visible in Mexico’s culture, art, and music today.

Here’s a closer look at some important aspects of Afro-Mexican history and culture that deserve more recognition.

Enslaved Africans Arrived via Veracruz

During the 16th century, Spain transported around 200,000 enslaved Africans to the Americas, with Veracruz being a major entry point for these ships. The city’s location along the Caribbean made it a melting pot of Indigenous, African, and Spanish cultures, and this fusion continues to shape the region’s traditions, music, and cuisine. Veracruz is known for its lively Carnaval celebrations, a vibrant display of the region’s revolutionary spirit, influenced by African rhythms and dances that trace back to these early African arrivals.

Music: Son Jarocho and Its African Influence

Son Jarocho, a folk music style that originated in Veracruz, draws heavily from African, Indigenous, and Mexican musical traditions. This energetic music incorporates stringed instruments like the jarana and requinto, and rhythmic dance steps that serve as percussion. One of the most famous songs, La Bamba, gained worldwide recognition through a 1958 rock-and-roll version and later through the 1987 film La Bamba. Over time, the genre spread across Mexico and to California, further cementing its place in the broader musical landscape.

Gaspar Yanga and the First Free Black Community in North America

One of the most significant figures in Afro-Mexican history is Gaspar Yanga, who is credited with founding the first community for free Black people in North America. Yanga was originally a chief in Guinea, West Africa, before being sold into slavery. In 1570, after escaping captivity, he led a successful revolt, eventually establishing a free settlement. By 1600, his community had expanded and fought off Spanish attempts to capture them. In 1618, Yanga negotiated a peace treaty with Spanish officials, ensuring freedom for his people. The town, originally known as San Lorenzo de los Negros, was later renamed Yanga in 1932 in honor of its founder. Yanga was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017.

Vicente Guerrero: Mexico’s First Black President

In 1829, Mexico made history by electing Vicente Guerrero as its president, becoming the first country in North America to do so. Guerrero was born to an Afro-Mexican father and an Indigenous Mexican mother. A key figure in Mexico’s independence movement, Guerrero fought alongside others to liberate the country from Spanish colonial rule. Under his leadership, Mexico abolished slavery on September 16, 1829—marking a historic victory for freedom nearly 40 years before the United States did the same. Guerrero’s legacy is honored in Mexico today, particularly in the state of Guerrero, which was named in his honor.

Pío Pico: The Afro-Mexican Governor of California

Pío Pico, the last Mexican governor of California, is another key figure in Afro-Mexican history. Born to an Afro-Mexican father, Pico was a successful businessman and politician. In 1845, he became governor of Alta California, which is now part of the U.S. state of California. Though his tenure was brief, Pico’s legacy is remembered through landmarks in Southern California, such as Pico Boulevard and Pío Pico State Historic Park.

Guerrero and Costa Chica: The Heart of Afro-Mexican Culture

The largest concentration of Afro-Mexican communities exists in the Costa Chica region, which spans parts of Guerrero and Oaxaca. Despite the significant Afro-Mexican population in these areas, the recognition of Afro-Mexican as a distinct ethnic identity didn’t occur until 2015. With over 1.3 million Afro-Mexicans in the country, Costa Chica stands as the cultural heart of this community. The region is known for its vibrant celebrations, such as the Dance of the Devils, a colorful performance with roots in Nigerian traditions, performed during Día de Muertos festivities.

Afro-Mexican Cuisine: A Rich Fusion of Flavors

Afro-Mexican culinary traditions have deeply influenced Mexican cuisine, especially in coastal regions like Costa Chica. The region’s culinary offerings are a blend of Indigenous Oaxacan ingredients and African cooking techniques. Traditional dishes like mole de pescado (fish mole) and barbacoa (slow-cooked meat) are staples of the region, showcasing the harmonious blending of African and Mexican flavors. Seafood plays a central role in the local diet, thanks to the coastal geography of Guerrero and Oaxaca. The unique culinary contributions of Afro-Mexicans remain an important part of the cultural heritage of this region.

Embracing Afro-Mexican Heritage

The Afro-Mexican legacy is rich, vibrant, and deserving of recognition in the broader narrative of Mexico’s history. From music and dance to politics and cuisine, the contributions of Afro-Mexicans have shaped the country in ways that are often unacknowledged. Yet, as the Afro-Mexican identity continues to resurface through cultural events, festivals, and a renewed sense of pride, the future looks promising for a more inclusive and celebrated Mexican identity.

Afro-Mexican culture is alive and well, with its influence visible in modern-day traditions, music, cuisine, and the growing recognition of its importance in Mexico’s history. As awareness continues to grow, the story of Afro-Mexicans will n