264: Mexico: Day of the Dead

The podcast explores the Day of the Dead, challenging the common perception of it as an ancient, pre-Columbian tradition. It argues that many elements associated with the holiday, such as sugar skulls and pan de muerto, are of European origin, specifically Spanish, and emerged no earlier than the 18th century. The discussion traces the holiday's evolution, noting its transformation during the Mexican Revolution in the 1910s when the post-revolutionary government promoted indigenous pride and anti-clericalism. This led to the state-sponsored invention of traditions, including an attempt to replace Santa Claus with Quetzalcoatl. The hosts also discuss how the James Bond film "Spectre," despite its inaccurate portrayal of the Day of the Dead, inspired the Mexican government to create an actual Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City.