Mexico: flag, capital, currency and history

Flag of Mexico

Download the flag of Mexico as a scalable SVG or as a PNG in three sizes. The flag emoji is 🇲🇽.

History of Mexico

Mexico was home to early Mesoamerican civilisations including the Olmec, Maya and Teotihuacan, and later the Aztec, whose capital Tenochtitlan stood on the site of present-day Mexico City. Spanish forces led by Hernan Cortes defeated the Aztec in 1521, and the territory became the Viceroyalty of New Spain. An independence movement began in 1810, and Spain's rule ended in 1821. The nineteenth century brought a war with the United States, the loss of northern territory, and foreign intervention. The Revolution began in 1910 and produced the Constitution of 1917. Mexico is a federal republic with its capital at Mexico City.

Key dates

1. c. 1200 BCThe Olmec civilisation emerges on the Gulf coast of Mexico.
2. 1325The Aztecs traditionally found Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco.
3. 1521Spanish forces and their indigenous allies capture Tenochtitlan.
4. 1810Miguel Hidalgo issues the Grito de Dolores, beginning the independence movement.
5. 1821Mexico achieves independence from Spain.
6. 1848The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the war with the United States.
7. 1917A new constitution is promulgated during the Mexican Revolution.

A short overview, not a full history. Dates are given for well-documented events only.

Currency of Mexico

Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN, $). Use our free currency converter to check exchange rates.

Festivals and greetings in Mexico

Celebrations observed in Mexico, with free greeting images and wishes you can personalise.

ChristmasEasterHalloweenDay of the DeadMother’s DayFather’s DayBirthdayWedding Anniversary

All greeting images for Mexico · Festival calendar

Frequently asked questions

Neighbours of Mexico

BelizeBelmopanGuatemalaGuatemala CityUnited StatesWashington D.C.

More countries in North America

CanadaOttawaGreenlandNuukUnited StatesWashington D.C.