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The Mexican National Coat of Arms: An Enduring Symbol of National Identity

The Mexican National Coat of Arms (Escudo Nacional Mexicano) is a powerful and evocative symbol deeply rooted in Mexican history and mythology. It depicts a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus devouring a serpent. This iconic image is derived from an Aztec legend that guided the nomadic Mexica people to their destined location for building their capital city, Tenochtitlan (now Mexico City).

According to the legend, the god Huitzilopochtli told the Mexica to search for an eagle perched on a cactus, eating a serpent. This vision was to mark the spot where they should establish their new home. After years of wandering, they finally encountered this scene on a small island in Lake Texcoco, where they founded Tenochtitlan in 1325.

The coat of arms has undergone several revisions throughout Mexican history, reflecting the country's changing political landscape. However, the core elements of the eagle, cactus, and serpent have remained constant, serving as a powerful reminder of Mexico's rich indigenous heritage and its enduring national identity. The current version of the coat of arms was officially adopted in 1968.

Country Information:

• Country: Mexico

• Website Category: Government, National Symbols, Culture, History

Keywords: Mexican Coat of Arms, Escudo Nacional Mexicano, Mexico, national symbol, eagle, cactus, serpent, Aztec legend, Tenochtitlan, Huitzilopochtli, Mexican history, national identity, government, culture, history