In this episode of The Mexpat Interview, I talk to Dr. Cristina Valdiosera, a Mexican molecular archaeologist who is leading a multi-disciplinary study of the “mestizaje” called AdMEXture.
The mestizaje—the mixing of the Spanish and Indigenous to create a new people—is one of the historical pillars of Mexican identity, a way of understanding and mythologizing the violent encounter that began in the 16th century. Today, historians and scientists like Dr. Valdiosera are questioning many assumptions of this story, trying to listen to the voices that have been excluded.
As you’ll learn in this conversation, her research team has already uncovered surprises, piecing together the life histories and lifestyles of ordinary people by studying their bones.
Special thanks to my sister, Carrie Bohne Warren, who has worked with Dr. Valdiosera in Spain and put us in contact!
Questions, commentary or feedback? Email me: hola@themexpatriate.com. And if you enjoyed this conversation, please share it.
