México Alfabético (Segunda Parte) Quiz

Mexicali, Baja California. The northern half of the Baja Peninsula was once part of a larger colonial territory known as California. After México gained independence, the region was divided, and Baja California became a separate state in 1953. Mexicali, a city near the U.S. border, was chosen as the capital.

The name Baja California means "Lower California," and Mexicali itself is a blend of "México" and "California," symbolizing its borderland identity.

Hermosillo, Sonora. Hermosillo was established in the 18th century and became the capital of Sonora due to its central location and growing importance. The name Sonora may have originated from a misinterpretation of a local river's name or from a religious reference. Hermosillo itself was named after a Spanish official.

La Paz, Baja California Sur. La Paz began as a Spanish settlement on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula. When Baja California Sur became a distinct state in 1974, La Paz was named its capital. The city's name, meaning "peace," was inspired by the calm waters of its bay and the tranquil nature of its early development.

Saltillo, Coahuila de Zaragoza. Saltillo was established in the late 1500s and became the capital of Coahuila when the state was formed in the 19th century. The name Coahuila may have indigenous origins, possibly describing a place rich in vegetation or water, though interpretations vary. Saltillo itself is known for its colonial architecture and textile traditions.

Monterrey, Nuevo León. Monterrey was founded in the late 16th century and quickly became a key commercial and industrial hub in northern México. When Nuevo León was established as a state, Monterrey was the natural choice for its capital. The name Nuevo León, meaning "New León," was inspired by the Spanish province of León, reflecting colonial ties.

Morelia, Michoacán. Morelia was originally called Valladolid, but was renamed in honour of José María Morelos, a key figure in México's independence. It became the capital of Michoacán in the 19th century. The name Michoacán comes from the Nahuatl term for "place of fishermen," referencing the region's lakes and rivers.

Pachuca do Soto, Hidalgo. Also just called Pachuca, it was a colonial mining center long before the state of Hidalgo was created in 1869. The city was chosen as the capital due to its economic importance. The name Hidalgo commemorates Miguel Hidalgo, the priest who initiated México's war for independence. Pachuca's name may come from indigenous roots meaning "narrow place" or "place of wind."

Puebla (City), Puebla. Founded in 1531 as a Spanish colonial city, Puebla was strategically located between México City and the port of Veracruz. It became the capital of the state of Puebla when the state was formed. The name Puebla comes from the Spanish word for "settlement" or "colony," reflecting its planned origin.

Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca. Oaxaca de Juárez, originally a Zapotec settlement, became a colonial city and later the capital of the state of Oaxaca. The name Oaxaca is derived from the Nahuatl word Huaxyacac, which refers to a place with guaje trees. The city was renamed to honour Benito Juárez, a native of the region and a prominent national leader.

Mérida, Yucatán. Mérida was built atop the ruins of the Maya city of T'ho and named after a city in Spain. It became the capital of Yucatán when the state was formed. The name Yucatán is believed to have originated from a misunderstanding between Spanish explorers and the Maya, possibly meaning "I don't understand you."