6.1 The Origin and Influence of Urbanization

List the major cities of your country

Mexico City: The capital of Mexico and by far the most populated city in the country. 

Tijuana: Located in Baja California, it is one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Mexico. 

Ecatepec: This city is part of the greater Mexico City area and is one of the most populous cities in the country. 

León: Located in the state of Guanajuato, León is one of the most populous cities in Mexico.

Identify which city is a metropolitan area and provide evidence of why it is and include mages.

Mexico City, officially known as the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico, is a prime example of a metropolitan area in Mexico. This area encompasses Mexico City itself and 60 other relatively close municipalities of the State of Mexico and Hidalgo. As of 2020, Greater Mexico City had a population of 21,804,515, making it the largest metropolitan area in North America. It is the economic, political, and cultural hub of Mexico, generating approximately $200 billion in GDP growth or 10 percent of the regional total. The area’s high degree of social and economic integration, as well as its relevance for urban politics and administration, are key indicators of its metropolitan status.

Identify population characteristics such as immigration and diversity in one city of your country. 

Mexico City:

Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world, with a population of over 21 million people in the Greater Mexico City area. It is a diverse and cosmopolitan city, with a rich history and a blend of cultures.

Immigration: Mexico City has traditionally been a major destination for internal migration in Mexico, attracting people from various states seeking better economic opportunities and quality of life. Additionally, the city has received immigrants from other countries, particularly from other parts of Latin America, as well as from Spain, the United States, and other nations.

Diversity: Mexico City is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting the diversity of Mexico itself. The city has a significant indigenous population, with roots tracing back to the Aztec and other pre-Hispanic civilizations. There are also sizable communities of people with Spanish, African, and other European ancestries, as well as groups from Asia and the Middle East.

 The diversity in Mexico City is reflected in its neighborhoods, cuisine, traditions, and cultural expressions. The city has thriving ethnic enclaves, such as Chinatown, Little Korea, and La Merced (a central market area with a strong indigenous presence).

 Overall, Mexico City's population is characterized by a rich tapestry of cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, making it a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that attracts people from all over Mexico and the world.

Identify major transportation in your country 

Metro (Subway): The Mexico City Metro is one of the largest and most heavily used metro systems in the world. It consists of 12 lines, spanning over 200 kilometers of track and serving nearly 200 stations. The metro is an efficient and affordable way to navigate the city, although it can get extremely crowded during rush hours.

Metrobús: The Metrobús is a bus rapid transit (BRT) system that operates on dedicated lanes, similar to a light rail system. It has several lines crisscrossing the city, providing a faster and more efficient alternative to regular buses.

Peseros (Minibuses): Peseros are small, privately-owned minibuses that follow specific routes throughout the city. They are a popular and inexpensive mode of transportation, but they can be crowded and sometimes unsafe

Discuss changes in Communication Networks and technology in your country 

Internet and Broadband Connectivity:

• The availability and adoption of high-speed internet connectivity have increased substantially in Mexico City. Major telecommunications companies have invested in expanding their fiber-optic and cable networks, offering faster broadband speeds to households and businesses.

• The government has also implemented initiatives to improve internet access and reduce the digital divide, particularly in underserved areas of the city.

Mobile Networks and Smartphone Penetration:

• Mexico City has seen a rapid growth in mobile network coverage and smartphone adoption. Major mobile network operators have upgraded their infrastructure to provide 4G LTE and, more recently, 5G connectivity in various parts of the city.

• Smartphone usage has become widespread, enabling access to a wide range of communication services, including social media, messaging apps, and video calling.

Wi-Fi Hotspots and Public Access:

• The city has implemented several initiatives to provide free public Wi-Fi hotspots in public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and government buildings. This has improved internet accessibility for residents and visitors.

• Many businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and hotels, also offer free Wi-Fi to their customers, further expanding connectivity options.

Identify which cities populations are migrating to within your country. Provide a screenshot from Google Maps to show where in your country populations are going to. (rural to urban) 

 In Mexico, several cities are experiencing significant population growth, indicating that they are popular destinations for internal migration

Tijuana in Baja California has seen a population increase of 39.18%

León in Guanajuato has grown by 27.51%

 Ciudad Juárez in Chihuahua has grown by 13.67%.

 Additionally, cities on the urban fringe of the continuously developed urban area of Mexico City have also seen substantial growth. For example, Tecámac grew by 50.2%

 Zumpango by 75.7%

 Huehuetoca by 63.2%

 Tizayuca in the state of Hidalgo by 72.7%

 These cities are becoming increasingly attractive due to their proximity to Mexico City and the opportunities they offer.

Identify a major economic activity in one city in your government.

One of the major economic activities in Mexico City is the service sector, which includes a diverse range of industries and contributes significantly to the city's economy.

Mexico City is the financial and corporate hub of Mexico, with a large concentration of companies, banks, and financial institutions. The city is home to the Mexican Stock Exchange (Bolsa Mexicana de Valores), which is one of the largest stock exchanges in Latin America. Additionally, many multinational corporations have their regional headquarters or major offices in Mexico City, contributing to the city's service sector.

Tourism is another important economic activity in Mexico City. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historic sites, museums, and vibrant culinary scene. Attractions such as the Zócalo (main square), the Anthropology Museum, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe draw millions of visitors annually, generating revenue through accommodation, transportation, dining, and other related services.

One significant government policy that has affected urbanization in Mexico City is the Bando Dos (Bando Número Dos) decree, also known as the "Two-for-One" policy. 

The Bando Dos (Bando Número Dos) or "Two-for-One" policy, implemented in the early 1990s, aimed to regulate urban growth in Mexico City. It required developers to provide two square meters of land for public use (parks, green spaces, infrastructure) for every square meter of land developed for residential or commercial purposes.

While intended to promote sustainable growth and public spaces, the policy faced criticism for potentially increasing housing costs and densification. It has undergone revisions over time but remains an influential policy that has shaped Mexico City's urban landscape and provision of public areas.