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Period: 1501 to
16th Century
Conquest and Colonization -
1521
Spanish colonization
Beginning of Spanish colonization. Spanish is imposed as the dominant language, but Franciscan and Dominican friars learn indigenous languages for evangelization. -
1570
The general language of New Spain
King Philip II declares Nahuatl as the general language of New Spain, facilitating evangelization. -
Period: to
18th Century
Bourbon Reforms -
Indigenous languages being forbitten
The use of indigenous languages in education and administration is prohibited to impose Spanish as the official language. -
Period: to
19th Century
Independence and Nation Building -
Mexico gaining independence
Mexico gains independence. Spanish is promoted as a unifying national factor, reducing indigenous language education. -
Benito Juárez's educational reform
It expanded secular and free education, but without recognizing linguistic diversity. -
Period: to
20th Century
Policies of Hispanicization and Recognition of Linguistic Rights -
Educational reforms
Lázaro Cárdenas’ educational reform initiates bilingual education in some indigenous communities. -
the National Bilingual Bicultural Education Program.
This model was created in response to demands from indigenous groups, academics, and the Zapatista insurgent movement. -
Amendment to Article 4 of the Constitution.
Mexico is recognized as a multicultural country, protecting the right to speak indigenous languages. -
Amendment to Article 2 of the Constitution.
Indigenous peoples' right to education in their mother tongue is recognized. -
Period: to
21st Century
Expansion of Bilingual Education -
General Law of Linguistic Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Bilingual education and language revitalization are promoted. -
Nowadays
Educational reform strengthens intercultural education and the right to receive education in indigenous languages.