Learn about the 3 main waves of arrival of the community in Mexico. The survival during the Spanish Inquisition, before Mexico became a secular country. From the arrival along the Conquistadors to World War II.​

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Exploring the history of the Jewish community in Mexico offers a fascinating insight into their resilience and contributions to Mexican society. Here’s an overview of the three main waves of Jewish migration to Mexico and their historical context:

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1. Early Arrivals and the Spanish Inquisition

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• Arrival with the Conquistadors (16th Century): The first wave of Jewish presence in Mexico dates back to the early colonial period. Many Jews, fleeing the Spanish Inquisition, arrived in the Americas. These early Jews often had to convert to Christianity or practice their faith in secret. Some of these individuals were among the Conquistadors and explorers, integrating into the early colonial society while maintaining their Jewish identity covertly.

• Survival During the Spanish Inquisition: The Spanish Inquisition was notorious for its persecution of Jews and converts (Conversos) suspected of secretly practicing Judaism. Despite the dangers, some Jews managed to survive by practicing their faith secretly or integrating fully into the Christian society of New Spain. They left behind hidden evidence of their religious practices, and their descendants continued to navigate the challenges of maintaining their identity under oppressive conditions.

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2. The Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries

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• Second Wave of Immigration (Late 19th to Early 20th Century): The second wave of Jewish immigrants arrived in Mexico during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period saw an influx of Jews escaping persecution in Eastern Europe, particularly from the Russian Empire and Poland, as well as from the Ottoman Empire. These immigrants contributed significantly to Mexican society, establishing businesses, schools, and community organizations.

• Establishment of Communities: During this time, Jewish immigrants began to establish more organized communities. The creation of synagogues, schools, and cultural institutions helped the community to thrive and integrate into Mexican society while maintaining their cultural and religious identity.

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3. World War II and Post-War Immigration

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• Third Wave of Immigration (1930s-1940s): The rise of Nazism and World War II led to a significant influx of Jewish refugees into Mexico. Many Jews fleeing the Holocaust sought refuge in Mexico, where they were met with varying degrees of support and integration.

• Post-War Era: After World War II, the Jewish community continued to grow and contribute to Mexican society. Many Holocaust survivors and their descendants settled in Mexico, enriching the cultural and social fabric of the country.

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Historical and Cultural Impact

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• Cultural Contributions: Jewish immigrants have made substantial contributions to Mexican culture, including in areas such as business, arts, and philanthropy. Their legacy can be seen in the diverse and vibrant communities they helped build.

• Community Preservation: Today, various institutions and organizations in Mexico work to preserve the Jewish heritage, including historical societies, Jewish museums, and community centers that document and celebrate the Jewish experience in Mexico.

• Educational Resources: For those interested in learning more, institutions like the Centro de Estudios Judaicos at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) and the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo (MUAC) provide valuable resources and exhibitions related to Jewish history and culture in Mexico.

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This journey through the history of the Jewish community in Mexico reveals their remarkable adaptability and resilience. Each wave of immigration reflects broader historical events and highlights the enduring spirit of a community that has significantly shaped Mexican society.

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WHAT YOU WILL DO

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You'll learn of the founding of Mexico next to the Great Aztec Temple, just 2 blocks from the first Shul, the first Catholic cathedral & the first Protestant church; you will hear of the arrival of the community along the conquistadors, 500 years ago, and the fateful ending of some at the stake.​ History will unravel as we share how Mexico became a pole of attraction as the economic capital of the Spanish Empire, ruling from Montana to Costa Rica & from Puerto Rico to the Philippines.

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We will see the Palace of the Inquisition and discover hidden messages which persecuted heresy for 300 years. We'll talk about the Laws of Reformation that made Mexico a secular state & of the anti-Fascist resistance that got the first anti-Semitic convention, cancelled.​ We will go to the park around which the second wave of migration got established, at the end of the 19th & the turn of the 20th centuries, coming mainly from Eastern Europe & the Ottoman Empire. We will see the oldest temples standing in front of churches which used to spy on suspected non-Catholics.

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We will learn of the advancement of newcomers, from tailors & seamstresses to the textile & jewelry industries which led to the establishing of Mexico's financial system, developed mainly with their capital. We end by learning of the abandonment of the temples and the moving to better areas of town.

 

WHERE YOU WILL BE

 

We will be in the Historic Center of Mexico City. We will walk from the Great Aztec Temple to Santo Domingo Plaza to the Mixcalco area.​

 

WHAT IS INCLUDED

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• The experience's specialized host and expert.

• Small group access.

• Introductory chat with coffee service.

• Multiple stops. 

• Entrance to open, private, or public, locations whose internal visit is mentioned and that might or not require reservations or tickets.

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THE EXPERIENCE

 

On this experience you will discover 500 years of specialized history in Mexico. You will see the development of the community from their three waves of arrival to date in very significative sites.

 

STARTING AND ENDING POINTS, FACILITIES AND TRANSPORTATION

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The experience begins next door to the Great Aztec Temple. Visits do not return to the starting point. This experience ends at the corner of Justo Sierra and Loreto streets, close to Teatro del Pueblo station on Line 4N. Uber or other cars can pick you up at the end. Your host will always remain with you until he makes sure everyone has the right directions and/or help for their next destination.

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