Mexican Revolution Unveiled through Corridos
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The Mexican Revolution Unveiled through Corridos: Political Aspirations and Emotional
Resonance
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Introduction
The Mexican Revolution of the early twentieth century remains a pivotal moment in
Latin American history. Fueled by decades of political upheaval, economic instability, foreign
interference, and the oppressive regime of President Porfirio Díaz, this revolution mobilized
diverse segments of Mexican society, primarily from rural and working-class backgrounds. Their
shared goal was to dismantle the existing oppressive order and usher in an era of social and
economic justice. The Mexican Revolution profoundly reshaped the nation's politics, economy,
and culture. Amid this tumultuous period, corridos, a traditional Mexican music genre, regained
prominence, providing an outlet for marginalized voices to narrate events, convey emotions, and
express political sentiments. This essay delves into these corridos to unravel the political
motivations and emotional nuances they encapsulate regarding the Mexican Revolution's events
and its prominent figures. By analyzing three selected corridos, we explore the intricate interplay
of political ideologies and emotional resonance within this transformative period of Mexican
history.
Corrido 1: "La Adelita"
"La Adelita" holds a special place in the pantheon of Mexican corridos, as it pays homage
to the remarkable figure of Adelita, a courageous female soldier who valiantly fought alongside
the revolutionaries during the Mexican Revolution. Within the political landscape of this corrido,
we find a profound message of reverence and empowerment.
First and foremost, "La Adelita" serves as a testament to the revolutionary spirit that
transcends gender boundaries. The songwriters of this corrido defied traditional gender roles by
elevating Adelita to the status of an icon.
1
In a male-dominated revolutionary movement, her
1 Salinas, Michelle.
Singing the Great Depression: Mexican and Mexican American Perspectives Through Corridos (1929-1949).
University of California, Los Angeles, 2016. https://www.proquest.com/openview/b441d2a5bf45b5a3c9866ad60c9af9a3/1?pq-
origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750
3
depiction as a symbol of courage and determination challenges societal norms.
2
This portrayal
underscores the theme of gender equality, amplifying the message that women could be as
resolute and instrumental in the struggle for a more just society as their male counterparts. In
doing so, "La Adelita" becomes a powerful advocate for inclusivity within the revolutionary
ranks.
Moreover, this corrido fosters sentiments of deep admiration for Adelita. Her unwavering
spirit and commitment to the cause serve as an inspiration not only for fellow revolutionaries but
for all Mexicans.
3
Her story resonates as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face
of adversity. By celebrating her bravery, the corrido underscores the idea that heroism knows no
gender boundaries and that the Mexican Revolution was, at its core, a collective endeavor.
"La Adelita" also serves as a beacon of hope for women's active participation in the
Revolution. It conveys the message that women could and should play a vital role in shaping the
destiny of their nation.
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In an era when Mexican society was grappling with issues of gender
equality, this corrido became a symbol of empowerment for women, urging them to step out of
the shadows and contribute to the transformative efforts of the Revolution.
Corrido 2: "La toma de Zacatecas"
"The Taking over of Zacatecas" stands as a powerful corrido encapsulating the pivotal
capture of Zacatecas during the Mexican Revolution. Within this ballad, the songwriters craft a
distinct political perspective, one that exudes celebration and underscores unity among the
revolutionaries. This corrido emerges as an anthem of triumph, an auditory testament to the
2 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera CollectionThe Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the
Mexican Revolution.” The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, December 13, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/12/mexican-corrido-ballads-
adversity-and-rebellion-part-4-corridos-mexican-revolution
3
“The Mexican Revolution: November 20th, 1910.”
NEH, March 19, 2012. https://edsitement.neh.gov/closer-readings/mexican-
revolution-november-20th-1910.
4 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera Collection. The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 1: Defining the
Genre” |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection,
November 2, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/11/mexican-corrido-
ballads-adversity-and-rebellion-part-1-defining-genre
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resounding victory of the revolutionary forces.
5
It resonates with the sentiments of jubilation that
must have swept through the ranks of the fighters as they achieved this momentous feat.
The songwriters masterfully employ their narrative to paint a vivid picture of the
antagonist, General Victoriano Huerta, in an unfavorable light. In doing so, they accomplish two
critical objectives. Firstly, they intensify the sense of unity among the revolutionaries by
vilifying a common foe. The depiction of Huerta as an adversary reinforces the idea that they are
bound together in their struggle against oppression. Secondly, by branding those who supported
Huerta as "traitors," the songwriters create a powerful dichotomy between the righteous
revolutionaries and their misguided adversaries.
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This not only strengthens the resolve of the
revolutionary forces but also offers a stark moral contrast that would resonate with the listeners.
The corrido, therefore, serves as a multifaceted tool within the revolutionary narrative. It
bolsters the determination of the revolutionaries, reminding them of their shared purpose and the
significance of their struggle. It functions as a unifying force, binding individuals from diverse
backgrounds under the banner of a common cause. Furthermore, it aids in the construction of a
collective identity, a critical component in any revolutionary movement. Through this corrido,
the revolutionaries find their voices harmonizing in chorus, celebrating their accomplishments
and reinvigorating their commitment to the cause.
Corrido 3: "La muerte de Pancho Villa"
"The Death of Pancho Villa" serves as a poignant ballad capturing the turbulent aftermath
of the Mexican Revolution, focusing on the tragic demise of the iconic revolutionary leader,
Pancho Villa. Within this corrido, the songwriters adopt a nuanced political stance, one that
5 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera CollectionThe Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the
Mexican Revolution.” The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, December 13, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/12/mexican-corrido-ballads-
adversity-and-rebellion-part-4-corridos-mexican-revolution
6
“The Mexican Revolution: November 20th, 1910.”
NEH, March 19, 2012. https://edsitement.neh.gov/closer-readings/mexican-
revolution-november-20th-1910.
5
revolves around introspection and melancholy.
7
This emotional resonance is driven by a
profound acknowledgment of the intricate web of factors that characterized the Revolution's later
stages
The corrido's primary objective is to convey a profound sense of loss and nostalgia for
Pancho Villa, a beloved leader whose charismatic presence defined an era. Villa's death
represents not only a personal tragedy but a symbolic one, marking the end of an epoch. The
corrido commemorates his bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the revolutionary
cause.
8
It seeks to immortalize Villa as a heroic figure, an embodiment of the revolutionary spirit
that drove countless individuals to join the struggle.
Simultaneously, the corrido provides a candid portrayal of the Revolution as a
multifaceted and complex endeavor. It does not shy away from acknowledging the challenges
and betrayals that marred the revolutionary journey. This complexity is an integral part of the
corrido's narrative, offering a more nuanced perspective on the Revolution's evolution.
9
It
recognizes that the path to change is fraught with obstacles, rivalries, and disillusionment.
Through its vivid storytelling, "La muerte de Pancho Villa" invites listeners to embark on
a contemplative journey, encouraging them to reflect on the Revolution's legacy. The corrido
prompts individuals to grapple with the profound impact of this transformative period in
Mexican history.
10
It acts as a mirror to the collective sentiment of a nation that witnessed the
7 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera CollectionThe Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the
Mexican Revolution.” The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, December 13, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/12/mexican-corrido-ballads-
adversity-and-rebellion-part-4-corridos-mexican-revolution
8 Salinas, Michelle.
Singing the Great Depression: Mexican and Mexican American Perspectives Through Corridos (1929-1949).
University of California, Los Angeles, 2016. https://www.proquest.com/openview/b441d2a5bf45b5a3c9866ad60c9af9a3/1?pq-
origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750
9 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera Collection. The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 1: Defining the
Genre” |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, November 2, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/11/mexican-corrido-
ballads-adversity-and-rebellion-part-1-defining-genre
10 Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera CollectionThe Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of
the Mexican Revolution.” The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution |
6
highs and lows of revolution. The corrido's melancholic tone underscores the bittersweet nature
of historical change, emphasizing that even in moments of loss, the spirit of the Revolution
endures.
Conclusion
The corridos, a unique form of musical expression, played an indispensable role in
conveying the political aspirations and emotional nuances of the Mexican Revolution. "La
Adelita" stands as a beacon of gender equality and empowerment, heralding hope for women's
participation in the Revolution. "La toma de Zacatecas" exuberantly celebrated unity and triumph
among revolutionaries, forging a sense of collective purpose. Meanwhile, "La muerte de Pancho
Villa" provided a reflective lens into the Revolution's intricate narrative, embracing both heroism
and tragedy. These corridos are invaluable cultural relics, encapsulating a diverse spectrum of
experiences, sentiments, and ideologies woven into the Revolution's fabric. They serve as a
timeless portal into the Mexican soul during this transformative epoch. Through these ballads,
we transcend viewing the Revolution merely as a historical event; instead, we glimpse it as a
profound and resonant human experience. The corridos beckon us to explore the Revolution's
multidimensional tapestry, ensuring that its legacy endures through the echoes of music and
memory.
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, December 13, 2017. https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/12/mexican-corrido-ballads-
adversity-and-rebellion-part-4-corridos-mexican-revolution
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Bibliography
Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera Collection. The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and
Rebellion, Part 1: Defining the Genre” |
Strachwitz Frontera Collection
, November 2,
2017.
https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/11/mexican-corrido-ballads-adversity-
and-rebellion-part-1-defining-genre
.
Gurza, Agustin. “Strachwitz Frontera CollectionThe Mexican Corrido: Ballads of Adversity and
Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution.” The Mexican Corrido: Ballads of
Adversity and Rebellion, Part 4: Corridos of the Mexican Revolution |
Strachwitz
Frontera Collection,
December 13, 2017.
https://frontera.library.ucla.edu/blog/2017/12/mexican-corrido-ballads-adversity-and-
rebellion-part-4-corridos-mexican-revolution
.
Salinas, Michelle. Singing the Great Depression: Mexican and Mexican American Perspectives
Through Corridos (1929-1949). University of California, Los Angeles, 2016.
https://www.proquest.com/openview/b441d2a5bf45b5a3c9866ad60c9af9a3/1?pq-
origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750
“The Mexican Revolution: November 20
th
, 1910.”
NEH, March 19, 2012.
https://edsitement.neh.gov/closer-readings/mexican-revolution-november-20th-1910
.