The Origin and History of Hispanic Heritage Month
Did you know that National Hispanic American Heritage Month is every September 15 to October 15 in the United States? Why do we celebrate it? To honor the heritage, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx people. This also encompasses U.S. citizens whose ancestors are from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The terms Hispanic,...Read More
10 Differences Between Castilian Spanish and Latin American Spanish
If you’re comparing Castilian Spanish vs Latin American Spanish and wondering which Spanish you should learn, you definitely have to read this post. In this lesson, I’m exploring the reasons behind the development of Castilian Spanish and Latin American Spanish and digging a little bit into the history of Latin America and other Spanish-speaking countries. Then, I’m listing the 10...Read More
The History and Tradition of Cobán’s Rabin Ajau in Guatemala
The Mayan festival of Rabin Ajau (also known as Rab’in Ajaw) is one of the most unique beauty pageants in the world. Rab’in Ajaw means hija del rey in Spanish, which translates to “daughter of the king” in English. People celebrate it in the city of Coban, in the department of Alta Verapaz in Guatemala. Rabin Ajau is a traditional festival that helps promote a safe environment for young...Read More
The History and Traditions of Mexico’s National Anthem
The Mexican national anthem is one of the three national symbols of Mexico along with the flag and the shield. People have been listening to, performing, and singing it since 1854 but it didn’t become official until 1943. It is a battle cry that tells the stories of the many military victories Mexicans had at a time when they felt demoralized after losing half of their territory to...Read More
10 Remarkable Ways Jennifer Lopez Inspires Us to Learn Spanish
Jennifer Lopez is an icon and inspiration for audiences around the world. She’s a talented singer, amazing dancer, trendsetter, and an all-around star. Jennifer Lopez is responsible for transforming Hollywood and the music industry’s perception of Latin American female artists. Join me in this exciting blog post where I explore the top 10 remarkable ways Jennifer Lopez has...Read More
11 Activities for Celebrating Cesar Chavez Day in Your Spanish Class
Cesar Chavez was a Mexican American human rights activist and leader. We celebrate Cesar Chavez Day to honor his legacy within Latino and Hispanic communities. His contributions to civil rights and his fight for better working conditions for farmers in Yuma, Arizona was groundbreaking. Get your students in on this meaningful celebration and honor his life with this list of...Read More
How Ellen Ochoa Became the First Hispanic Woman to Go to Space
Dr. Ellen Ochoa is a Latina space pioneer! She made history by becoming the first Hispanic woman to ever go to space. In 1990, Ellen Ochoa was admitted into NASA’s astronaut training and she became the first Latina in space in 1993 when she went on a nine-day mission aboard a space shuttle called Discovery. Since then, she has gone into space 4 times and logged 1,000 hours in...Read More
What to Expect When You Travel to Easter Island From Chile
Easter Island is one of the most magical and impressive spots on the planet. La Isla de Pascua—also known as Rapa Nui or Easter Island—is an island that belongs to Chile as a territorio especial (special territory) in the region of Valparaíso, one of the 16 regions that constitute the country. Easter Island statues are the most famous aspect of the island. These are large rock...Read More
First Public Library in Latin America Is in Mexico
You will be in awe to know that the first public library in Latin America is in the famous Mexican state of Puebla. This extraordinary Mexican library is home to unique records dating back centuries ago—some are even kept from the public! Let’s explore the fascinating history and collections this library keeps. The First Public Library in Latin America In 1646, members of the...Read More