31 cosas que quizá no sabías de los charros y la charrería en México

Yolo Camotes

26 Jul 202017:37

Summary

TLDRThe video delves into the rich tradition of the charro, a significant icon in Mexican culture, known for its distinctive attire, connection to mariachi music, and national pride. It explains the origins of the charro, the history of charrería, its status as a national sport, and its inclusion as part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage. The video covers various traditions, skills, and controversies associated with charrería, offering fascinating insights into Mexican history and its connection to this emblematic figure, while also addressing concerns about animal welfare in the sport.

Takeaways

👒 The charro is one of Mexico's most iconic figures, recognizable by their wide-brimmed hat, decorative pants, jacket, and boots.
🎉 Charro Day is celebrated in Mexico on September 14th, established by President Manuel Ávila Camacho, who also declared charrería as the national sport.
🐴 Charrería, the traditional Mexican equestrian sport, evolved from ranch workers showcasing their skills in horsemanship and cattle handling.
🏅 Charrería was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO on December 1st, 2016.
🌍 The state of Hidalgo is considered the birthplace of charrería, where early techniques were introduced by Sebastián de Aparicio to indigenous people.
🎥 Mexican cinema in the 1940s and 1950s played a major role in shaping the image of the charro, with actors like Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante symbolizing masculinity and strength.
👗 Women who participate in charrería are known as 'escaramuzas,' and they perform in traditional 'Adelita' dresses.
🐎 The quarter horse, a mix of English thoroughbreds and horses brought by Spanish conquistadors, is the ideal horse for charrería.
🎻 The traditional music of the charros is performed by mariachis, and tequila is often a staple at charro events, even being used in horseback stunts.
🐂 Charrería involves 10 distinct skills, including horse training, bull riding, and roping, culminating in a demonstration called 'El Charro Completo,' where one charro performs all the events.

Q & A

What is the origin of the word 'charro'?
-The word 'charro' comes from the Basque word 'charl,' meaning 'bad.' In the 17th century, these individuals were considered rough and of low social class.
When is the National Day of the Charro celebrated in Mexico?
-The National Day of the Charro is celebrated on September 14, established by President Manuel Ávila Camacho, who also declared charrería as Mexico's national sport.
How did charrería develop as a sport in Mexico?
-Charrería originated when workers on Mexican haciendas began showcasing their horseback riding and roping skills to impress others. It later evolved into formal competitions called 'charreadas.'
What significant recognition did charrería receive in 2016?
-In 2016, UNESCO declared charrería as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Who was Sebastián de Aparicio, and what was his role in the development of charrería?
-Sebastián de Aparicio, considered the father of charrería, introduced European techniques of agriculture and cattle herding to indigenous people in Mexico, helping them become skilled in handling animals like cattle and horses.
What are the women who participate in charrería called, and what is their role?
-Women who participate in charrería are called 'escaramuzas.' They perform in traditional 'Adelita' dresses and demonstrate their horsemanship in group routines.
What role does mariachi music play in charrería?
-Mariachi music is traditionally associated with charros, often accompanying their performances and celebrations.
How did the Mexican film industry contribute to the image of the charro?
-The Mexican film industry, especially in the 1940s and 1950s, portrayed the charro as a symbol of masculinity and strength. Actors like Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante played significant roles in shaping this image.
What restrictions exist regarding appearance in charrería competitions?
-Charrería regulations are strict about appearance. For men, long hair is considered unappealing and unhygienic, and the use of flashy or pastel-colored clothing is prohibited. Only serious and classic colors are allowed.
What is the controversy surrounding the treatment of animals in charrería?
-Charrería has faced criticism for its treatment of animals, with concerns about animal suffering during the events. Advocates for animal rights argue that the sport involves cruelty, but the charrería community is working towards more humane practices.

Outlines

00:00

🎩 The Iconic Charro: Mexico's National Symbol

The charro, a defining symbol of Mexico, is known for his wide-brimmed hat, adorned jacket, and association with mariachi music. With his pistol and guitar, he evokes nostalgia among Mexicans abroad and admiration within the country. Charros excel in both horseback riding and agricultural tasks like lassoing. The national sport, 'charrería,' celebrates this figure, with its National Day on September 14th. This paragraph highlights the charro's origins and cultural importance.

05:01

📜 History and Etymology of Charros

The word 'charro' comes from the Basque word 'charr,' meaning 'bad,' reflecting the initial perception of charros as rough or low-class in the 17th century. Charrería became a national sport under President Manuel Ávila Camacho. Originating from hacienda workers showing off their riding and lassoing skills, it has evolved over centuries. In 2016, UNESCO recognized charrería as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

10:01

🏇 The Cultural Roots of Charrería in Hidalgo

The state of Hidalgo is considered the birthplace of charrería, thanks to figures like Sebastián de Aparicio, who introduced European agricultural techniques to indigenous people. Initially, the locals were disinterested, but they soon mastered cattle and horse handling. This period laid the groundwork for modern charrería, and the first charreada competitions began after the Mexican Revolution.

15:03

🎭 The Role of Women in Charrería and Modern Celebrations

Women who participate in charrería are known as 'escaramuzas' and are distinguished by their Adelita-style dresses. The Museum of Charrería in Mexico City preserves this tradition. Modern charreada events feature elaborate displays of skill, including raising a bottle from the ground on horseback. There are ten main categories of 'suertes,' or skills, that charros demonstrate, such as taming wild horses, lassoing bulls, and performing daring jumps between horses.

🏆 Charro Competitions: Mastering the Suertes

In charrería competitions, a 'charro completo' is a rider who excels in all the suertes, demonstrating mastery of the sport. Charrería organizations, such as 'Charros de Jalisco' founded in the early 1920s, and the 'Federación Nacional de Charros' created in 1933, have played a crucial role in formalizing the sport. Mariachi music and the 'cine de oro' (golden age of cinema) have further elevated the charro's iconic status, symbolizing masculinity and national pride.

🎬 The Charro in Cinema and Traditional Regulations

Mexican cinema in the 1940s and 1950s glorified the image of the charro, with actors like Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante embodying strength and masculinity. Charrería is a highly regulated sport, with strict rules regarding attire and grooming. For instance, long hair is prohibited for male participants, and pastel or flashy colors are not allowed in competitions. These regulations aim to maintain the sport's traditional and masculine image.

⚔️ Charros in Mexican History: Warriors and Rurales

Charros have played pivotal roles in Mexican history, particularly during the U.S. invasion of 1847, where charros formed guerrilla groups to defend their land. Under Porfirio Díaz, the 'Rurales,' a rural police force, were known for their charro attire and were tasked with protecting the countryside from bandits. The ideal horse for charrería is the 'Quarter Horse,' though other breeds, like the Azteca, have also been bred specifically for this sport.

🎉 Charrería Ceremonies and Traditional Attire

Charrería events begin with a parade of charros and escaramuzas paying homage to the national flag. There are various types of charro suits, ranging from work attire to formal gala outfits, each with specific materials and designs. The gala suits, often adorned with silver buttons and embroidery, are typically worn in prestigious events. The charro suit is a representation of Mexico's rich history and the blending of Spanish and indigenous cultures.

🎖️ Charrería: A Military Reserve and Competitive Discipline

Before World War II, charros were considered a military reserve for Mexico's cavalry. Charrería is the only sport where participants can lose points for poorly executed skills, encouraging excellence. The charro's hat, originating from Spain, is not only a symbol but also serves practical purposes, providing protection during falls. The resilience and design of the hat reflect its historical significance in both work and competition.

🎤 Famous Charros and Traditional Dishes

Some of the most famous Mexican charros include Vicente Fernández, Antonio Aguilar, and Pedro Infante, who were also popular mariachi musicians and actors. Traditional charro cuisine, like 'frijoles charros,' reflects the simplicity and resourcefulness of rural charros, especially in the arid northern regions of Mexico. The dish, originally prepared with basic ingredients, has become a staple at Mexican gatherings.

⚾ The Charro Influence in Modern Sports and Expressions

Charrería has influenced other sports, like baseball, with teams like 'Los Charros de Jalisco.' The term 'cuento charro' (charro story) is used colloquially in Mexico to describe exaggerated tales, a nod to the charros' tendency to boast of their feats. This expression emerged in the 19th century, reflecting the charros' cultural influence on language and storytelling.

👑 The Legacy and Global Reach of Charrería

Charrería has evolved beyond Mexico, with over 1,000 federated associations and 300 escaramuza teams. The sport is practiced in the U.S., particularly in states with large Mexican communities, like California and Texas. The charro's legacy is also tied to Mexican history, with figures like Emiliano Zapata adopting the charro style. Today, charrería is a symbol of Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

🐎 Ethical Debates Surrounding Charrería

In recent years, charrería has faced criticism for its treatment of animals, with concerns over cruelty during competitions. While traditions are important, there is growing pressure to reform certain practices to ensure the humane treatment of animals. Some argue that the sport should adapt to modern ethical standards without losing its cultural significance. The charro community has expressed intentions to address these issues and minimize harm to animals.

🇲🇽 The Charro: A Unifying Symbol of Mexican Identity

The charro is more than just a figure in Mexican history; he represents the fusion of indigenous and Spanish cultures. The image of the charro brings together Mexicans from all walks of life, embodying both national pride and the spirit of resilience. Charrería reflects the cultural unity and diversity of Mexico, serving as a symbol that transcends regional and social differences.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Charro

A 'Charro' is one of Mexico's most distinctive cultural icons, representing a traditional cowboy figure. Typically depicted with a wide-brimmed hat, decorated jacket, and boots, charros are also associated with mariachi music and national pride. In the video, the charro is a symbol of nostalgia for Mexicans abroad and admiration for those within the country, often embodying masculinity, bravery, and skill in horseback riding and ranch activities.

💡Charrería

Charrería is a traditional Mexican sport that showcases various skills related to cattle herding, horse riding, and ranch work. It became Mexico’s national sport and was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2016. The video highlights its historical roots in haciendas and its importance in Mexican national identity. Various competitions, known as charreadas, evolved from these ranching skills.

💡Sombrero

The sombrero is a wide-brimmed hat, often associated with the charro and traditional Mexican attire. Originating from Andalusia and Navarra in Spain, it served both as protection from the weather and as a safety measure for horseback riders. In the video, it is described as an essential part of the charro's wardrobe, representing both utility and status, with high-quality versions adorned with silver and intricate designs.

💡Suertes

'Suertes' are the competitive events or skills demonstrated in a charreada, which include horse-riding tricks and feats of roping or bull wrestling. The video mentions 10 categories of suertes, such as 'manganas' and 'jineteo de toro,' where participants showcase their control over animals and their riding skills. Mastering all suertes earns one the title of 'charro completo,' indicating versatility in charrería.

💡Escaramuzas

Escaramuzas refer to women who participate in charrería, performing skilled horseback riding routines while wearing traditional 'Adelita' dresses. The video mentions their origins in Jalisco and their inclusion in charreada events. Escaramuzas are an important aspect of modern charrería, demonstrating that the tradition is inclusive of women, adding elegance and a sense of pageantry to the sport.

💡Tequila

Tequila, Mexico's famous alcoholic beverage, is not only a symbol of celebration but also integrated into the sport of charrería. The video describes how charros sometimes perform tricks involving tequila bottles, such as picking them up while riding at full speed. It highlights tequila’s cultural significance in charreada events and its broader association with Mexican identity and tradition.

💡Mariachi

Mariachi music is closely tied to the figure of the charro, often accompanying charrería events and celebrations. In the video, mariachi bands play a key role in setting the tone for charro performances and enhancing the festive atmosphere. Mariachi, with its vibrant melodies and themes of love, bravery, and national pride, amplifies the cultural symbolism of the charro.

💡Cine Mexicano

Mexican cinema, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s, played a critical role in solidifying the charro as a national symbol. Famous actors like Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante portrayed charros in numerous films, contributing to the idealized image of the charro as a strong, masculine figure. The video emphasizes how these cinematic portrayals shaped public perceptions of charrería and national identity.

💡Patrimonio Inmaterial de la Humanidad

Charrería was declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016, recognizing its significance as part of Mexico’s living cultural tradition. This designation emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting charrería as a sport and cultural practice. The video notes this milestone as a way to protect and celebrate charrería for future generations.

💡Frijoles Charros

Frijoles Charros is a traditional Mexican dish associated with charros and ranch life. It consists of beans cooked with chiles, garlic, and meats like sausage. The video mentions this dish as a symbol of rustic Mexican cuisine, particularly popular in northern Mexico during the colonial period. Over time, it became a staple of Mexican cooking and is often served during celebrations and gatherings.

Highlights

The charro is one of the most distinctive icons of Mexico, symbolizing Mexican identity both for those abroad and at home.

Charros are not only known for their skills with horses and cattle but also for their association with music, particularly mariachi.

The word 'charro' comes from the Basque word 'charr,' meaning 'bad,' as these individuals were once considered rustic or of low social class.

September 14th is celebrated as the 'Day of the Charro' in Mexico, officially declared by President Manuel Ávila Camacho.

UNESCO declared charrería an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on December 1, 2016.

The origins of charrería date back to when hacienda workers in Mexico showcased their horsemanship and cattle-herding skills to impress others.

Women who participate in this sport are called 'escaramuzas' and often wear traditional 'Adelita' dresses, with a strong connection to Jalisco.

The charro suit is strictly regulated, with serious colors and traditional designs required, prohibiting the use of pastel or fluorescent tones.

The sport of charrería consists of 10 events, or 'suertes,' ranging from horse control to bull riding, and involves a combination of skill, speed, and precision.

The National Association of Charros was officially established on June 4, 1921, marking the start of formal charrería competitions.

Mexican cinema in the 1940s and 1950s, especially with figures like Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante, played a significant role in shaping the image of the charro.

The charro hat, originating from Spain, serves not only as protection from weather but also as a safeguard during falls from horseback.

Antonio Aguilar, a famous Mexican actor and singer, was a genuine charro, often performing charrería stunts without the use of stunt doubles.

The charro image has been deeply embedded in Mexican culture, influencing traditional dishes like 'frijoles charros' and other regional cuisines.

While celebrated, charrería has faced criticism for animal cruelty in recent years, with calls for more humane treatment of animals in the sport.