Mexico is a country located in the southern part of North America, bordered to the north by the United States, to the south and west by the Pacific Ocean, to the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea, and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico. It has a population of over 126 million people, making it the 10th most populous country in the world. Mexico's capital is Mexico City, which is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world.
Mexico is a federal republic consisting of 32 states, and its official language is Spanish, although 68 indigenous languages are also recognized. The country has a rich history that includes ancient civilizations such as the Maya and the Aztecs, who were well-established before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the early 16th century. Mexico was colonized by Spain and remained under Spanish rule for nearly 300 years until it gained independence in 1821.
The economy of Mexico is one of the largest in the world, driven by industries such as manufacturing, oil, and tourism. Mexico is the 15th largest economy globally by nominal GDP and is a significant trade partner with the United States due to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now updated as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The country is known for its cultural diversity, which includes a blend of indigenous, European, and African influences. Mexican cuisine, art, and music, especially mariachi, are well-known globally.
Mexico is home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient city of Teotihuacan, the historic center of Oaxaca, and the biosphere reserves of Sian Ka'an. The country has a diverse geography that includes deserts, forests, mountains, and tropical rainforests. Mexico is also known for its beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Mexico's government operates as a representative democracy with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The President serves as both the head of state and government. The country has faced various challenges, including political corruption, economic inequality, and drug cartel violence, but it remains a regional power in Latin America.
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