The Enduring Legacy of Spanish Immigration in Mexico

Pablo Mirante Suárez from León, Spain, arrived in Mexico on December 21, 1952. Damian Figueras, an architect from Barcelona, has been living in Mexico for 2 years. Miras Gper, a Mexican biologist, also holds Spanish nationality and coordinates the Spanish presence in Mexico.

The Spanish presence in Mexico dates back to the late 19th century, driven by factors like political turmoil and economic hardship in Spain. The main provinces of origin for Spanish immigrants were Galicia, Asturias, and Canarias, followed by Cataluña, Castilla, and León. The immigration was facilitated by Mexico's policies promoting foreign investment under President Porfirio Díaz.

Migration to Mexico from Spain has been ongoing, with recent waves influenced by economic crises in Europe. For example, an architect who faced challenges in Spain found opportunities in Mexico due to personal connections and a favorable job market. The process of migration has evolved over time, with earlier immigrants arriving by ship and communicating through letters.

Early Spanish immigrants to Mexico, like the parents of the speaker, faced significant challenges upon arrival. They had to adapt to a new country, with some even sleeping at counters due to limited resources. Despite the hardships, a strong community of Spanish refugees formed in Mexico, with children growing up together and attending the same schools.

In 1939, the ship Sinai arrived in Veracruz with 1600 Spanish refugees from the Civil War, welcomed by General Lázaro Cárdenas. Mexico ultimately accepted around 25,000 Spanish immigrants by 1942, including the speaker's grandparents who fought on the Republican side.

Frontenis, a sport with Spanish roots, was introduced by Spanish immigrants who brought Basque pelota to Mexico. Mexicans contributed to the sport's development, making Mexico a global powerhouse in frontenis, excelling in both men's and women's teams.

Spanish immigrants in Mexico founded major companies, breweries, and large grocery stores in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These ventures became pillars of the Spanish colony, establishing institutions like the Spanish Beneficence.

The speaker's family history involves diverse origins, with a paternal grandfather who was a philosopher, a German grandmother, and Catalan roots on the maternal side. Despite language barriers, the speaker's parents met in Mexico, where they integrated into the community, leading to the speaker's own integration through artistic activities and meeting their future spouse.

During the Spanish Civil War, many parents decided to send their children to safer places due to the terrible war conditions. Some children from Morelia were sent to the Soviet Union, while others were sent to Morelia, Mexico, because General Cárdenas, who was from Michoacán, sent them there. This decision was crucial as many of these children, who were sons of 'rojos' (leftists), would not have survived in Spain under Franco's rule.

The speaker expresses a deep love for Mexican cuisine, particularly enjoying the variety of flavors, textures, and colors found in fruits and vegetables. They mention a personal fondness for 'mole' and 'tacos,' highlighting the cultural fusion present in their culinary experiences. Additionally, the speaker reflects on the differences in food culture between Spain and Mexico, noting the emphasis on not wasting food and the use of spicy ingredients like 'chile.'

The speaker reminisces about their mother's specialty dishes, particularly salads, and simple yet delicious meals like 'arroz con conejo' (rice with rabbit). They also mention a love for spicy food, contrasting their preference for spicy peppers with the more mild tastes of others. The speaker fondly recalls discovering and enjoying new dishes like 'penaques' and developing a love for tacos from a young age.

The speaker shares an interesting fact about the word 'paella,' revealing that it actually refers to the utensil in which the dish is prepared, not the dish itself. The real name for the dish is 'arro la valenciana.' The speaker also mentions the culinary influence of immigrants, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and adaptation in traditional dishes.

The speaker mentions that the Spanish popularized paella in Mexico. They highlight a key rule about paella, which is that it's acceptable to eat shrimp with hands and lick fingers. The discussion then shifts to the speaker's 25th wedding anniversary, where they renewed their vows in a Mexican tradition. The ceremony took place at the Rayo church, a Mexican Baroque jewel, showcasing traditional Mexican wedding customs different from those in Spain.

The speaker discusses a significant moment when intellectuals, including Don Daniel Cocio Villegas and Don Alfonso Reyes, convinced General Cárdenas to provide refuge to intellectuals like Gaos. This group also included religious figures, footballers, and entertainers. They founded philanthropic associations like the Spanish Benevolent Society and the Spanish Pantheon. Notably, the Spanish Hospital, inaugurated almost 100 years later, remains active today.

The speaker emphasizes the vital role of Spanish immigrants in Mexico, particularly in disseminating knowledge and literature. They mention the establishment of the Spanish Hospital and recreational venues like the Spanish Casino and Spain Club. The speaker highlights the contribution of figures like Porrua in democratizing knowledge and fostering cultural exchange between Spain and Mexico.

The speaker notes that Spanish migration to Mexico consisted mainly of educated individuals, benefiting various professions in the country. Many Spanish exiles found themselves at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and later at the National Polytechnic Institute. The establishment of educational institutions like the Colegio de México further enriched the academic landscape.

The speaker reflects on the later phases of Spanish migration to Mexico post-1980s, highlighting the significant economic impact of Spanish banks like Banco Santander and Banco Bilbao Vizcaya. They mention the dominance of Spanish banks in capital movement and collaboration with Mexican banks. The speaker underscores the seamless integration of Mexican and Spanish cultures, emphasizing a shared love for both countries.

The speaker reflects on the challenges of cultural adaptation when returning to Spain after living in Mexico. They mention how their speech is perceived as different, struggling to adjust back to Spanish norms and vocabulary. Anecdotes include asking for 'esparadrapo' in a pharmacy and being misunderstood due to language differences.

The speaker shares a story about their family speaking Catalan, but upon returning to Spain, their Catalan is considered outdated. This highlights how language can freeze in time, failing to evolve with societal changes. The anecdote emphasizes the disconnect between the speaker's language and the current linguistic norms in Spain.

The speaker discusses the negative impact of living in nostalgia during a migratory process. They mention the plight of Spanish refugees who never fully integrated into Mexican society, always hoping to return to Spain. This perpetual longing for a past that no longer exists is portrayed as a significant challenge in the migration experience.

The speaker expresses gratitude towards Mexico for its generosity towards Spanish immigrants. They highlight the selfless surrender of the speaker's parents and grandparents to the greatness of Mexico. The narrative underscores the deep appreciation for the opportunities and familial bonds that Mexico has provided.

The speaker reflects on their dual identity as both Spanish and Mexican. They express love for Mexico and acknowledge feeling more Mexican than some natives. The speaker's attachment to both countries is evident, showcasing a complex blend of cultural identities and a deep sense of belonging to Mexico.

Approximately 80,000 Spanish immigrants reside in Mexico, contributing significantly to the country's development. Their descendants have integrated into Mexican society, becoming active members of the community. The legacy of Spanish immigrants continues to shape Mexico's cultural landscape and enrich its diversity.

The entry of León features a vast lagoon where locals bathe, distinguishing between 'guapas' and 'feas.' This anecdote symbolizes the enduring presence of Spanish culture in Mexico, blending with local traditions and creating a unique cultural tapestry. The Spanish influence remains palpable in everyday life and customs.