Aztec Beliefs and Political Satire Shaped Día de los Muertos Into a Distinctly Mexican Holiday

Writing & Editing
Written By Brenda Duran

When ancient Nahuas wanted to honor those who had passed away, they marked the season with a special day that we know today as Día de los Muertos — The Day of the Dead. The holiday, celebrated on Nov. 1 and 2 across Mexico and Latin America, is a time for families to reflect on and celebrate the souls of their ancestors with food, drink, photos and laughter. While many people associate the holiday with gaiety, Día de los Muertos is rooted in contemplation of the afterlife and traditions passed down from the Nahua worldview of space and time and Aztec mythology. 

Brenda Duran
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